Project management ranks as the most in-demand skill for 2021, according to a report by Business Talent Group, an online marketplace for high-level independent talent.
The second most in-demand skill was “market landscape and research.” BTG noted that with both the top two skills, companies are seeking talent to drive critical workstreams and transformations to explore new business and product pipelines.
BTG’s report is based on an internal analysis of its data. The company places high-level professionals such as management consultants, subject-matter experts, interim executives and more.
The 10 most in-demand skills based on the number of requests for each skill over the past 12 months are:
- Project management
- Market landscape and research
- Organizational design and workforce planning
- Growth strategy
- Process optimization and transformation
- Corporate and business unit strategy
- Market access and value
- Strategic planning
- Advanced analytics
- Program management office
BTG also listed the 10 fastest-growing skills based on a year-over-year comparison of the number of requests, with “compliance strategy and processes” topping the list. It grew 700%. Propelling the skill, BTG reported companies are fortifying risk management, strengthening privacy-related initiatives and enhancing digital security among other efforts.
The 10 fastest-growing skills are:
- Compliance strategy and processes, up 700%
- B2B marketing, up 450%
- Portfolio strategy, up 263%
- Forecasting, up 260%
- Channel management, up 250%
- Service operations, up 233%
- Capital raising, up 200%
- Clinical solutions, up 200%
- Shared services, up 200%
- Data management, up 175%
“From delivering mainstay skills such as market analysis and project management to niche expertise in growing fields and functions, high-end independent talent are fueling growth, optimizing operations, and driving market-moving results across all areas of the business landscape,” said Jody Greenstone Miller, BTG co-founder and co-CEO.