Survey: Half of Nordic and Benelux boards question CEO readiness for future demands
A Heidrick & Struggles poll of over 1,000 executives found that half of respondents in the Nordic and Benelux regions doubt their CEO's capabilities align with upcoming business needs, compared with nearly four in ten across Europe. Long average CEO tenures, such as nine years in Belgium and seven in Sweden and Norway, may explain the mismatch as the pace of technological and geopolitical change accelerates. The region's consensus-driven governance and low turnover, including no new CEO appointments in Norway in 2025, contrast with the growing uncertainty about leadership fit.
The survey data reveals a striking regional contrast in leadership confidence. While nearly four in ten European executives doubt their CEO's capabilities, the figure rises to half in the Nordics and Benelux. Long tenures appear central to this disconnect, with Belgian CEOs averaging nine years in post and their Swedish and Norwegian counterparts seven. Norway recorded no new CEO appointments in 2025, the lowest turnover among major European listed companies.
Internal promotion patterns may deepen the problem. Dutch internal candidates now spend nearly 15 years at a company before becoming CEO, up from 9.5 years in 2023. Experts suggest such insularity can limit fresh perspectives, while consensus-driven governance slows decision-making. With 90% of executives expecting strategic and operational changes soon, boards face mounting pressure to find leaders combining technology expertise, commercial skill, and transformation experience.
This survey could signal growing friction between stable governance traditions and accelerating business disruption. If boards lose confidence in sitting CEOs without acting, transformation may stall, potentially affecting employees, investors, and regional competitiveness. However, the region's consensus culture may also mean these doubts prompt deliberate, well-considered succession planning rather than hasty changes. The outcome could reshape how Nordic and Benelux companies approach leadership development and board oversight.