AS artificial intelligence (AI) continues to transform workplaces globally, Jamaican businesses are being urged to rethink how they develop talent and prepare for the evolving labour market.

According to PricewaterhouseCoopers’ (PwC) 2026 AI Jobs Barometer, AI is reshaping the skills employers value most.

“AI is increasing the importance of uniquely human capabilities,” said Hugh Thompson, director, consulting (digital transformation) at PwC Jamaica. “Employees will need to combine AI literacy with critical thinking, communication, leadership and sound judgement.”

The report, which analysed more than one billion job advertisements across 27 countries and territories, found that jobs requiring AI-related skills are growing nearly eight times faster than the overall job market, while workers with AI skills now command a 62 per cent wage premium globally.

PwC’s research also shows a clear divergence in how AI is shaping roles.

“As AI transforms the workplace, organisations must ensure employees are equipped with both the technical and human skills needed to succeed,” Thompson said. “The ability to adapt, collaborate, communicate effectively and exercise sound judgement will become increasingly important as AI becomes more integrated into everyday work.”

PwC’s 2026 AI Performance Study was based on a survey of 1,217 senior executives (director level and above) from companies across 25 sectors globally. AI-driven performance was measured based on revenue and efficiency gains attributable to AI, benchmarked against industry medians.

The study found that companies most exposed to AI are outperforming, with labour productivity growth reaching 163 per cent among leading organisations, compared with significantly lower gains elsewhere.

“Much of the conversation around AI has focused on which jobs may disappear, but the bigger story is how jobs are changing,” said Jossett Francis Wint, senior manager, consulting (workforce) at PwC Jamaica. “Organisations creating the most value from AI are using technology to amplify human expertise, improve decision-making and unlock new growth opportunities.”

The report also highlights that entry-level roles are changing quickly. In AI-exposed occupations, junior positions are now more likely to require skills traditionally associated with senior staff, including leadership and creativity. These roles have grown 35 per cent since 2019, while other entry-level roles have declined.

For Jamaican employers, the findings reinforce the need to invest in workforce transformation, including upskilling, role redesign, change management and responsible AI adoption.

“As AI becomes more integrated into everyday business operations, success will depend on how effectively organisations combine technology with human capability,” Thompson added. “The businesses that invest in both will be best positioned to compete and grow.”

Hugh Thompson, director, consulting (digital transformation) at PwC Jamaica.