Viewed in Russell Reynolds Associates insights Not as support functions.As drivers of growth. In many organizations, tech still plays defense.Keeping systems running. Managing risk. Supporting operations. In others, it’s different. Technology, data, and digital sit closer to the CEO.Closer to customers.Closer to revenue. How is the role evolving? Today’s top tech leader often spans:technology, data,… More
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Viewed in Russell Reynolds For years, the COO role came and went. In some organizations, it disappeared. In others, it felt optional. That cycle is now reversing. In 2025, COO appointments reached a seven-year high across listed companies globally, with 146 new COOs, up from 130 the year before. At the same time, departures fell… More
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Viewed in Russell Reynolds CFO turnover reached a seven-year high in 2025. Russell Reynolds Associates recorded 316 new CFO appointments globally, including a record 106 in the S&P 500. Departures remained elevated, and in the FTSE 100 average tenure fell below five years. This is not instability. It reflects a role that has expanded significantly… More
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Viewed in Russell Reynolds The past four years have confirmed one fact: leadership now determines whether organizations adapt or stall. Despite experience and effort, only 45% of executives believe their teams are prepared for today’s top threats. Even on familiar challenges—economic uncertainty and talent scarcity—confidence levels are under 40%. Why this mattersBusiness complexity is compounding…. More
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Viewed on Russell Reynolds A quiet but powerful transformation is reshaping the top legal offices of the world’s largest companies. In 2024, 54% of Fortune 500 general counsel appointments were internal promotions—and every one of those was a first-time GC. An additional 6% were external first-timers, signaling a growing shift: potential is being prioritized over… More
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Viewed in Russell Reynolds Today’s CHRO is no longer just the head of HR—they are a strategic architect of workforce transformation. As AI redefines work and trust in traditional institutions erodes, the CHRO is uniquely positioned to drive innovation, resilience, and responsible leadership at the top. Key Shifts in the CHRO Role Strategic Partner at… More
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Viewed in Russell Reynolds For C-suite leaders considering a Chief AI Officer (CAIO), it’s worth weighing how this role could best align with your AI ambitions. A CAIO can be transformative, especially if AI is central to driving your growth or reshaping products. But in some cases, AI leadership might be more effective within existing… More
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Viewed in Russell Reynolds In today’s turbulent geopolitical climate, effective government affairs leadership is critical. Russell Reynolds Associates’ research highlights the shifting perspectives of 55 government affairs leaders, revealing the need for strategic, proactive approaches to manage risks and guide organizations. Government affairs leaders emphasize the importance of being proactive on global issues, understanding the… More
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Viewed in Russell Reynolds Emma Combes and Dee Symons discuss the crucial role of trust within the C-suite and provide four actionable strategies for CEOs to cultivate an environment of trust among their top executives: Foster Inclusive and Transparent Leadership Rather than promoting competition and tension, CEOs should unite their team by sharing information with… More
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Viewed in Russell Reynolds In February, something remarkable happened – OpenAI’s org chart became the most viewed, surpassing even giants like Amazon, Apple, and Microsoft. This shift highlights the growing interest in Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI), with OpenAI leading the charge. A huge gap Despite this, our today’s data reveals that less than 50 Vice… More
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Viewed in Russell Reynolds The inaugural Global CEO Turnover Index Annual Report for 2023 provides valuable insights into the evolving landscape of CEO leadership, with implications for businesses in 2024 and beyond at public companies. The COVID-19 pandemic significantly influenced CEO turnover trends, causing a decline in departures during 2020 and 2021. A five-year high… More
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Viewed in Russell Reynolds The role of the COO has evolved into a more strategic position, making it a top contender for the CEO spot. This shift is driven by the digital landscape and sustainability expectations. Russell Reynolds Associates conducted a study on nearly a thousand COOs using Hogan psychometric tests, revealing some crucial insights…. More
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Viewed in Russell Reynolds Discover the growing trend of Tech Advisory Boards and how they can help organizations navigate the ever-changing technological landscape. Bridging the tech talent gap These boards provide strategic guidance and expertise from industry experts, thought leaders, and technology professionals. Their insights can help companies strategize in digital domains, make acquisitions, and… More
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Viewed in Russell Reynolds Integrating senior advisors is becoming common practice among private infrastructure firms, following the approach used in private equity. Insights, Expertise and Leadership These advisors bring valuable insights, networks, and expertise that complement the skills of firm professionals and portfolio leaders. However, the lack of a standardized model for engaging senior advisors… More
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Viewed in Russell Reynolds Succession planning is crucial for the success of an organization and should be a key focus for C-suite leaders and boards. However, many organizations are not taking a formal and proactive approach to succession planning, which creates strategic risks. Russell Reynolds Associates’ Global Leadership Monitor identified three common failings in succession… More
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Viewed in Russell Reynolds According to research by Paul J. Zak, a professor at Claremont Graduate University, employees at high-trust organizations experience 74% less stress and 29% greater life satisfaction, 106% more energy at work and 50% higher productivity, 40% less burnout, and 13% fewer sick days. The author examines what trust means in the… More
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Viewed in Russell Reynolds With dozens of offices in over two dozen countries, it is fair to say that management consulting firm Russell Reynolds, founded in 1969, interacts with a vast number of chief executive officers. The management consulting behemoth observes in this article, authored by five Russell Reynolds professionals, that the demands on today’s… More
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Viewed in Russell Reynolds If you had a chance to read our most recent blog, “Growing (and Shrinking) Functions at the Top,” which we posted just a few days ago, you already know the big take away from it. In a thorough comparison we conducted on C-suite executive moves at the world’s largest companies over… More
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Discover how adopting a challenger mindset can lead to remarkable business results by embracing reasonable risks and unconventional approaches.
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Viewed in Russell Reynolds Associates There seems a singular common denominator running through most business analysis and commentary these days: Business is changing rapidly and hugely, and it will never again be the same. For the most part, it is the global pandemic, which now has taken over four million lives, that is cited as… More
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