A view of jobs by department offers further insight into changes occurring throughout the industry.
Information technology and business management are the only areas experiencing growth, per Live Data Technologies. Every other team—from engineering to marketing and product—has seen its numbers shrink.
Unlocking the door with AI
In June, WPP chief executive Mark Read stated AI will alter the advertising workforce, eliminating some jobs while creating others.
This shift is already well underway, with AI appearing in job requirements at a growing pace. Indeed, mentions of AI in global job listings for marketing and advertising roles have increased by more than 67% so far in 2025 compared to the same time last year, according to a recent report from software company Autodesk.
“We’ve begun to notice AI skills, training, and program knowledge appearing more in job specs, particularly in project management and operational capacities,” said Helen Kimber, founder of Creative Connections, a talent acquisition firm that works with global ad agencies.
For people looking to enter the ad industry, thinking of AI as an opportunity, rather than an obstacle, could be key to getting doors to open.
“More than once it has been mentioned to me that younger incoming talent is naturally more fluent with AI,” explained Martens from Sasha the Mensch. “Companies are keen to find people who are very comfortable with it.”
