SOFTSWISS, a global iGaming technology provider, has joined forces with recruitment consultancy Pentasia to launch the 2026 iGaming Industry Talent Trends Report.
In this sense, the in-depth study analyzes the current talent market scenario and projects development routes for the sector.
Structured based on proprietary data and interviews with more than 90 operational leaders from the B2B and B2C segments, the document provides a complete analysis of hiring dynamics, availability of professionals and strategic recommendations for the year.
How the industry’s operational maturity demands new HR tactics
As iGaming operators transition from an aggressive expansion phase to consolidating their operational maturity, the industry still faces a common mistake: reliance on short-term hiring tactics.
As a result, the report warns that this lack of structured planning increases financial volatility and creates severe technical gaps in teams.
In order to overcome this bottleneck, the study points to immediate solutions, such as the adoption of cross-skilling (multidisciplinary training to maintain flexibility) and adaptation to the new European Union Pay Transparency Directive, which will transform financial clarity into a pillar of Employer Branding.
Natalia Perkowska, Deputy Director of Human Resources at SOFTSWISS, summarizes the strategy.
“Ambiguity is costly and good candidates don’t wait forever. Treat hiring as a partnership, not a transaction,” he explains.
“The best professionals are convinced by honesty, competence and leadership they can trust”, points out the executive.
The analytical pillars and the search for transparent processes
The report is mainly divided into five central axes that dissect the job market:
- “iGaming Talent Market Overview” compares B2B and B2C hiring dynamics, compensation trends and mobility patterns
- “7 Key Trends Shaping Today’s Tech and iGaming Talent Market” identifies structural developments, such as the integration of AI into workflows, and evolving skills requirements
- “Candidate Market vs. Employer Market” looks at whether 2026 will reflect a shift in the balance of power in favor of employers or candidates, as well as the factors driving their decisions.
- “Employer Branding in iGaming – More Important Than Ever” evaluates how brand positioning and transparency influence talent acquisition results.
- The “Case Studies” section provides practical frameworks for efficient hiring.
Alastair Cleland, general director of Pentasia, also highlights that senior professionals seek environments where they can generate a clear impact.
“Product-oriented environments attract those who are motivated by defining action plans and solving complex problems. Brand-oriented teams attract marketers focused on fast-paced customer acquisition and retention,” he explains.
“In both cases, transparent processes and trust in the employer’s approach influence decisions”, concludes the director.
The report is now available for download on the SOFTSWISS website.
Discussion of the report’s findings in Malta will continue in a live LinkedIn event in partnership with Pentasia. Titled “Stop Losing Talent: 7 Smart Steps to Hiring in 2026”, the panel will take place on March 20, as the first session in the SOFTSWISS panel series, open to the public. Therefore, registrations are now open here.
