2026 Corporate Recruiters Survey Deans Summary

Overview

Based on responses from over 620 corporate recruiters and hiring managers at staffing firms around the world, the Corporate Recruiters Survey 2026 Deans summary offers a high-level overview of the latest data about skill demand, hiring and compensation trends, and perceptions of MBA and business master’s graduates. In addition, it highlights why employers remain confident in graduate management education (GME) before evaluating how their confidence translates to real and projected hiring and compensation trends.

Quick Facts

• Data analysis and interpretation, skills using AI tools, and other technology/IT skills grew the most in value in the last year.
• Across most industries, more employers viewed online and in-person programs equally in 2026 compared to 2024. 
• Compared to five years ago, employers in Western Europe and East and Southeast Asia are more likely to hire talent who require additional legal documentation.