Survey finds one in five new hires fits a leadership role

Diversity-focused hiring in India’s white-collar job market continued to expand even as overall recruitment activity slowed, according to the latest findings from the foundit Insights Tracker (fit). The survey reported a 21 per cent year-on-year increase in diversity hiring during May 2026, contrasting with an overall decline of 4 per cent in white-collar hiring compared to the same period last year.

The report indicates that organisations are continuing to invest in inclusive workforce strategies despite a cautious hiring environment. Women accounted for 56 per cent of diversity-focused recruitment, while hiring of persons with disabilities (PwDs) rose significantly, increasing from 2 per cent in May 2024 to 12 per cent in May 2026. Diversity and inclusion (D&I)-focused recruitment, including LGBTQIA+ and neurodiverse talent, represented 32 per cent of all diversity hiring.

The Information Technology (IT) and software services sector remained the largest contributor to diversity hiring, accounting for 25 per cent of such recruitment. Banking, Financial Services and Insurance (BFSI) continued to record the highest participation of women in diversity hiring, while PwD recruitment was most prominent in the ITES/BPO and manufacturing sectors.

Geographically, Bengaluru emerged as the leading hub for diversity hiring, increasing its share from 15 per cent to 19 per cent over the past year. Hyderabad recorded the fastest growth, rising from 10 per cent to 15 per cent, driven by demand from technology firms, Global Capability Centres (GCCs), and pharmaceutical companies.

The survey also highlighted a growing presence of diversity hiring at senior levels. Around 18 per cent of diversity-focused recruitment was reported in senior management and leadership positions, while mid-level roles accounted for 44 per cent and entry-level positions for 38 per cent.

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The Hans India