Survey finds that 75 per cent of HR leaders worry about keeping pace with salary expectations through 2026
The projected average salary increase across Canadian human resources roles is 1.6 per cent in 2026, according to a new report.
Compensation and benefits specialists are forecast to see larger gains at 2.5 per cent, while 2.4% is is predicted for HR managers and HR generalists.
The salary benchmarks are based on actual compensation for professionals that Robert Half has matched with employers across the country and third-party job posting data from Textkernel.
Pressure on compensation
The survey also found that 75 per cent of HR leaders worry about keeping pace with salary expectations through 2026.
But 44% predict that including pay ranges in job descriptions will help them attract and hire skilled talent in 2026.
And 56% are most willing to increase salaries for candidates with specialized skills or certifications, finds Robert Half.
As an example, the ranges for salaries in Canada could range from:
- $75,500 to $125,000 for a compensation manager
- $88,000 to $107,000 for a compensation analyst
- $82,500 to $110,000 for a benefits manager
- $74,000 to $91,250 for a benefits specialist
Strategic role evolution drives compensation growth
It found that:
- 91% will participate in a major digital transformation initiative in the next two years
- 42% of HR leaders are willing to increase starting salaries for roles supporting critical business needs.
- 39% identify finding skilled digital talent as a top priority for the next 2 years.
