SaaS Recruitment Trends 2026: Many Companies Met Last Year's Targets; Demand for 'CMO and Manager Candidates' Increasing

Ma-Cari NEXT CAREER, a recruitment agent specialized in SaaS sales operated by MM Souken (Headquarters: Shinjuku, Tokyo; CEO: Haruhiro Hagiwara), a marketing company supporting the digital shift of sales and marketing, conducted an intention survey on '2026: SaaS Company Recruitment Activities' among recruitment and HR personnel working for SaaS companies.

The survey revealed that while SaaS recruitment activities continue to maintain high levels, there is a 'broadening' in recruitment areas and required skills.

Background: In the previous year's survey, over 80% of SaaS companies responded they would 'actively recruit in 2025,' highlighting high interest in inside sales roles. With the expansion of the SaaS market, the recruitment fever remains at a high level. Will SaaS companies continue to accelerate hiring in 2026, and what specific skill sets are required for next-generation salespersons?

Survey Summary: - Over 70% of companies met or exceeded their 2025 recruitment targets, indicating strong performance. - In 2026, the scope of recruitment is expanding to include management layers in addition to member layers. - Regarding required skills, expectations for 'Generative AI utilization' are rising alongside 'analytical and problem-discovery skills.'

Survey Overview: - Period: February 25 to February 26, 2026 - Method: Internet survey via PRIZMA - Respondents: 1,005 HR/recruitment personnel in SaaS companies - Source: MM Souken Co., Ltd.