Investment Banking: 2026 Talent Insights

Following a turbulent year across global markets, hiring in investment banking is beginning to stabilise, but the sector continues to shift. From macroeconomic pressures and refinancing waves, to the growing influence of AI in hiring, banks and professionals alike are adjusting strategies for the year ahead.

In this video, Summer-Jane Lewis, Principal Consultant at Selby Jennings, shares key insights to help hiring teams and candidates prepare for 2026. The insights are also explored in the written summary below.

 

What changed in investment banking in 2025, and how did that impact hiring?

"This year saw uneven hiring trends across the investment banking space. In M&A, activity was dampened by political uncertainty and tariff implications, particularly affecting consumer and industrials sectors. Hiring in these verticals slowed, especially during the first half of the year.

"However, momentum picked up in the second half of 2025. Hiring appetite grew across London, the Nordics, and Germany, particularly within TMT and healthcare. There was a clear demand for professionals with additional language skills, reflecting the growing need for cross-border deal execution capabilities.

"Larger investment banks saw limited hiring in capital markets, despite a rise in IPOs. Instead, hiring was concentrated in financing teams. A strong wave of refinancing's and recapitalisations led to increased demand for credit-experienced professionals across debt advisory, financing, and restructuring functions."

What should firms and professionals prioritise in 2026?

"To stay ahead of competition, investment banks are being advised to implement skills-based interview processes. Increasingly, firms are incorporating modelling tests and case study assessments early in their hiring cycles. This allows hiring managers to evaluate technical proficiency and candidate commitment earlier, while also accelerating time-to-hire in a highly competitive market.

"Professionals looking to advance in 2026 should anticipate the broader adoption of AI screening tools. CVs should be tailored to highlight relevant experience, technical skills, and analytical capabilities aligned to specific roles. Presentation and clarity will be key in standing out at the first stage."

The expanding role of AI in investment banking talent strategy

"AI adoption is beginning to impact both talent acquisition and day-to-day responsibilities for bankers. Talent acquisition teams are using AI screening tools to streamline early-stage hiring processes, making it even more important for candidates to have up-to-date and targeted CVs.

"More notably, senior bankers are adopting AI tools to support business development. Origination and market mapping tasks are becoming faster and more efficient, helping teams stay agile in a fast-moving market. Looking ahead, AI literacy will be a core differentiator. Bankers who can implement and utilise these tools effectively will be better positioned to succeed in 2026 and beyond."

To discuss your hiring plans for 2026 or explore our current investment banking opportunities, request a call back or browse open roles.