AI Is Replacing Junior Jobs Faster Than Expected, Says New CEO Survey

A new global survey by the Oliver Wyman Forum and the New York Stock Exchange highlights a rapid shift in hiring trends, driven by AI adoption. Nearly 43% of 415 surveyed CEOs across industries and regions expect to reduce entry-level hiring over the next two years, up from just 17% in the previous year’s survey. Instead, companies are prioritizing mid-level workers (33%) and senior talent (10%), as AI systems increasingly handle routine tasks like coding, document analysis, and customer support that were once junior roles. The report describes this as a transition from a traditional 'talent pyramid' to a 'middle-heavy diamond' workforce structure. While AI excels at repetitive tasks, CEOs emphasize the need for human judgment in decision-making, practical context, and problem-solving. This shift is accelerating faster than anticipated, with nearly 45% of CEOs expecting flat headcounts and 29% planning workforce reductions exceeding 5% over the next one to two years. Some companies adopting AI are still hiring younger workers, particularly those with digital and AI fluency. Among firms seeing strong AI returns, 24% of CEOs reported increasing focus on junior employees, valuing their ability to adapt to AI-powered workflows. The survey underscores a broader trend: AI is reshaping not just how work is done, but who companies choose to hire. The findings suggest a cautious approach to hiring, with three-quarters of CEOs either freezing or cutting jobs. However, the role of AI-literate junior talent remains significant in companies leveraging AI effectively. The shift reflects a growing reliance on technology to handle routine work while preserving experienced employees for strategic decision-making.