Embracing the

Transformation of Leadership

2025 View from the C-Suite Executive Research

The Global C-Suite Landscape is Being Fundamentally Reshaped

Leadership is evolving—fast. Economic pressures, workforce shifts, and rising leadership burnout are creating new challenges for executives worldwide. To understand how today’s leaders are adapting, we surveyed 2,675 executives across industries and geographies. 

This confluence of generational transition, leadership imperatives and external forces necessitates that organizations become more resilient, able to respond to market trends while maintaining stability.

 

In the latest LHH report on the state of leadership we identify three core themes on leadership transition that organizations need to address to overcome the current headwinds facing businesses:

  • Navigating a generational shift in leadership
  • Addressing critical gaps in knowledge and ability
  • Accelerating the success of new Leaders

Findings are based on our study that included 2,675 Executives

  • From 10 different top economies
  • Leading 500+ employee organizations
  • Operating across multiple industries

Discover Leadership Insights in Our In-Depth Report

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If an organization is going to succeed, they need leaders who can help drive results. But the reality is—most organizations don't have the support systems in place to make sure these leaders are successful.
Juan-Luis Goujon, Senior Vice President, Global Head ICEO

KEY CONCLUSIONS OF THE REPORT:

  • In today's volatile environment, leadership dynamics are evolving rapidly, facing heightened internal and external pressures.
  • Baby boomers are opting for alternative employment paths rather than immediate retirement.
  • High burnout rates and significant team turnover present substantial challenges to executive success.
  • Leader confidence and cohesion of their top team are key to successful implementation of business strategy and maintaining stability in a disrupted market

The Hidden Barrier to CEO Success: Team Cohesion
 

Leadership teams are changing fast, bringing both innovation and instability.

The latest ICEO View from the C-Suite research uncovered that leadership team effectiveness was the top internal challenge for CEOs. Without cohesion at the top, strategies drift, priorities compete, and execution suffers. Strong leadership isn’t just about individual talent—it’s about alignment, collaboration, and clarity.


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Mind the Leadership Gap: The Confidence Crisis of Next-Gen Executives

Next-gen executives are stepping up.
 

Millennials and Gen Z are stepping into leadership roles faster than ever. They bring fresh ideas and a new way of thinking. But many don’t feel ready. One-third of new-to-role executives lack confidence in their own leadership, and 31% question their team’s ability to deliver.



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The Leadership Lifeline: Why Every Executive Needs a Mentor
 

The best leaders don’t go it alone.
 

Leadership has never been more demanding. 56% of leaders report feeling burned out—up 4 points from last year. The real cost? Slower decision-making, higher turnover, and weakened leadership teams. But burnout isn’t inevitable. Mentorship helps executives make better decisions and stay resilient.



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From Silver to Gold: Harnessing the ‘Silver Tsunami’
 

10,000 Baby Boomers retire every day.
 

Every day, 10,000 Baby Boomers reach retirement age—by 2027, this trend will reshape businesses across industries. Leadership transitions, knowledge gaps, and talent shortages are real risks. But forward-thinking companies are reimagining how experienced leaders contribute, creating flexible roles and building stronger intergenerational teams.

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Dive into latest LHH research