Michael Page Salary Report 2027: Wage Growth in AI, Compliance, and Construction Professions

Michael Page’s newly released 2027 Salary Report shows that demand for business-critical skills continues to drive wage growth in Switzerland. This is particularly true for artificial intelligence and machine learning, banking compliance, relationship management, and construction, as well as for sales roles with high performance requirements.

More candidates, but not always the right ones

Economic uncertainty and restructuring have increased the pool of candidates in some sectors. According to the report, however, employers are still willing to pay a premium to skilled workers who contribute directly to business success. Wages rose the most in roles where specialized knowledge remains in short supply.

The report paints a picture of a labor market that is becoming not less active, but more selective. Companies are managing their workforces more strictly, extending their recruitment processes, and increasingly relying on interim and temporary workers. At the same time, they continue to invest in skills that support growth and transformation and make it easier for them to meet regulatory requirements.

According to the report, the unemployment rate has risen from about two percent to about three percent. More professionals from the financial and pharmaceutical sectors are looking for jobs, and international corporations are relocating global functions abroad. Demand remains high for most positions, however, because many available candidates do not match the open positions. Where suitable candidates are lacking, wages are rising. In commodities trading, on the other hand, wages are falling in some roles.

Newcomers to the workforce and those affected by restructuring are feeling the pressure

Two groups are feeling the impact of this change particularly keenly. Those who have just graduated from college or are just starting their careers are finding it harder to gain a foothold in the job market. Employers increasingly expect candidates to use AI tools from day one to boost their productivity.

Even experienced specialists and executives affected by restructuring are realizing that technical expertise alone is no longer enough. Employers place greater value on adaptability, digital skills, and a willingness to embrace new technologies. According to JobCloud, over 30 percent of job postings for office positions require applicants to be able to integrate AI into their work. In Switzerland, the report states that 71 percent of professionals already use generative AI in their daily work—up from 55 percent in 2025.

Yannick Coulange, Managing Director of Michael Page Switzerland, comments on the report’s findings: «Job seekers who actively incorporate AI into their work gain a real competitive edge—whether they’re just starting their careers or have twenty years of professional experience. And employers who want to attract professionals with this combination must act quickly—and make compelling offers.»

Data Source for the Report

The study covers more than 500 job profiles across 14 industries. It is based on nearly 20,000 recruitment interviews as well as Michael Page’s database of more than 500,000 candidates. The report includes gross fixed annual salaries in thousands of Swiss francs, with low, medium, and high ranges for each, as well as sector trends for industries ranging from banking to IT to real estate and construction.

Source: Michael Page