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As organizations accelerate the adoption of automation in recruitment and operations, a new Korn Ferry report highlights a risk that human resources leaders cannot afford to ignore.
The report authors warn of a “pipeline crisis tomorrow,” adding that “your board loves the cost savings today. They’ll hate the leadership crisis it brings on its tail.”
Why entry-level roles are critical
According to the 2026 Talent Acquisition Trends survey, 37% of companies plan to replace entry-level roles with AI, while operations and back-office positions are even more affected, at 58%.
Korn Ferry emphasizes that entry-level employees are foundational to an organization’s future leadership pipeline. These roles provide early-career talent with opportunities to learn the business from the ground up, develop institutional knowledge and acquire skills essential for mid-level and senior positions.
David Ellis, Korn Ferry
“It would be a mistake to stop hiring young, entry-level people,” wrote David Ellis, senior vice president of talent transformation at Korn Ferry. “These are the fastest adopters of new technology.”
The report authors elaborate: “Entry-level and back-office positions aren’t just about getting routine work done. They’re where people learn your culture, understand your processes and develop the institutional knowledge that makes them valuable leaders later.”
