Web3 Hiring Is Changing: What Recruiters Need to Know

The Web3 job market is evolving fast, and recruiters are feeling the shift. In a recent conversation from Denver’s crypto scene, Frances MacDonald, founder of Divine Match Talent, explained how talent demand is changing across blockchain, AI, compliance, and sales. Her perspective offers a clear look at where hiring is headed and what companies need to do to stay competitive.

For readers following the broader startup and emerging tech ecosystem, this is a useful snapshot of how talent strategy is adapting. You can explore more industry coverage on the AI News section and broader stories across the main categories.

The State of Web3 Hiring

MacDonald described a market that is still active, but much more selective than before. Remote roles are becoming less common, while hybrid and US-based positions are increasingly preferred. At the same time, layoffs continue to affect talent supply, creating a market where some companies are slowing down and others are still building.

That combination makes recruiting more complex. Candidates are looking for stability and clearer opportunities, while employers want highly specialized people who can contribute quickly. A strong recruiting strategy now requires more than posting jobs—it demands market awareness, trust, and a deep network.

Why AI Skills Are in Demand

One of the biggest takeaways from the interview is that AI skills are now among the most sought-after capabilities in the space. MacDonald noted growing demand for AI engineers and people who understand the overlap between blockchain and AI. That trend reflects a wider industry move toward practical, revenue-driving use cases rather than hype alone.

Organizations are also hiring more legal and compliance talent. As the sector matures, regulatory awareness matters more than ever. Companies need professionals who can help them operate responsibly while still moving fast.

For more on how emerging technology is shaping business decisions, Genzio can explore the Finance category and the latest updates from Genzio Media.

From In-House Talent Leader to Founder

Before launching Divine Match Talent, MacDonald spent nearly five years at ChainSafe as Head of Talent. She helped scale the company from 20 to 130 people, gaining hands-on experience with growth, hiring, and team building in Web3. That background gives her a strong foundation as an agency founder.

Starting her own business came with a major learning curve. She now handles everything herself—sales, recruiting, admin, content, and strategy. Like many founders, she has had to learn how to stay profitable, stand out in a crowded market, and work through uncertainty.

Lessons in Resilience and Pivoting

MacDonald was candid about the challenges of agency life. Not every client pays on time, and not every deal works out. In a bear market, adaptability becomes essential. Rather than staying limited to Web3 alone, she has expanded her work to include AI companies as well.

That kind of pivot is increasingly common across emerging tech. The ability to move between adjacent sectors can help founders survive slower cycles and create new opportunities. It also shows why strong networks and partnerships matter. Referral relationships can keep business moving when direct demand softens.

A Mission-Driven Approach to Recruiting

Despite the stress of running a business, MacDonald said her work is powered by mission. She sees herself as a professional matchmaker, helping companies find the right people and helping candidates land positions that fit their skills and goals. That focus on service gives her work meaning beyond transactions.

In a market shaped by layoffs, changing role expectations, and rapid technical change, that mindset stands out. Talent acquisition is no longer just about filling seats. It is about aligning the right people with the right problems at the right time.

What Companies Should Take Away

• Hybrid and US-based roles are becoming more common than fully remote positions.

• AI skills are a major hiring priority, especially alongside blockchain experience.

• Compliance and legal talent are increasingly important for mature teams.

• Sales and growth hires still matter, especially in competitive markets.

• Recruiters and founders need to stay flexible and open to adjacent sectors.

Helpful Resources

For more context on AI’s growing role in business and hiring, see McKinsey’s research on AI adoption at https://www.mckinsey.com/capabilities/quantumblack/our-insights. You can also explore workforce and future-of-work analysis from Deloitte at https://www2.deloitte.com/global/en/insights/focus/future-of-work.html.

If you want more interviews and coverage about builders in emerging tech, visit the Entertainment category for creator-led stories and the Events category for conference coverage.

FAQ

What is Divine Match Talent? Divine Match Talent is a boutique recruiting agency founded by Frances MacDonald, focused on matching companies with talent in Web3, AI, and related industries.

What roles are most in demand right now? AI engineers, blockchain-adjacent talent, compliance professionals, and strong sales or growth candidates are among the most sought-after profiles.

Why are hybrid roles increasing? Many companies want more control, collaboration, and US-based alignment, which has reduced the number of fully remote openings.