AI is no longer the future—it’s the here and now. From creative ideation to customer service, roles in artificial intelligence are transforming how businesses operate. But while the tech is moving fast, people are still at the heart of making it work. “AI tools are trained on data and so are susceptible to misinformation, disinformation and inaccuracy. These can be reflected in the tool’s output, therefore it’s important to be aware of the risk of inaccurate information, as well as the legal liabilities around it.” – Extract from Major Players’ Future of Work Report.
Whether you’re a startup founder, a marketing director, or leading a creative team, staying competitive in the age of AI means hiring not just to keep up—but to lead. So, when it comes to hiring AI roles, which roles should you be prioritising right now?
1. AI Product Managers
You don’t need a team of coders to embrace AI—but you do need someone who can spot opportunities for automation and innovation. AI Product Managers sit at the intersection of technology, design, and business. They understand how to embed AI into your products, processes, or services in ways that are strategic and user-focused.
2. Data Analysts & Data Scientists
Good AI is only as good as the data it learns from. These roles help you collect, clean, and interpret the data that trains your models and informs decisions. While many companies are jumping on generative AI, those ahead of the curve are investing in robust data foundations first.
3. Prompt Engineers & AI Content Specialists
In the creative industries, the rise of tools like ChatGPT and Midjourney is changing workflows—but they still need a human touch. Prompt Engineers craft the right questions to get the best results, while AI Content Specialists blend machine-generated work with strategic thinking, brand tone, and audience insight.
4. Ethics & Compliance Leads
AI is powerful—but it also raises big questions. From copyright to bias, privacy to transparency, these specialists help you stay on the right side of regulation and reputation. In many sectors, ethical AI practices are becoming a key part of consumer trust and brand value.
5. Change Managers & AI Evangelists
Bringing AI into a business isn’t just a tech upgrade—it’s a cultural shift. Change Managers help teams adapt and upskill, while AI Evangelists bring energy, training, and clarity to what can otherwise feel overwhelming.
What do these roles earn?
Some of these roles can demand high salaries, and it can make it difficult to decipher how much these roles should pay. Major Players has given insights into what the top roles in AI are and how to get these roles.
The Bottom Line?
Hiring AI roles isn’t just about tech—it’s about transformation. It’s about building a team that can harness the tools of tomorrow while staying true to your brand, your people, and your values today.
For more insights and experiences from 100+ business leaders from across the UK and Europe, read the Future of Work 2024 Report.