This archive report was first published on 9 September 2019.
CEOs Embracing Change ¶
Published on September 9, 2019, a study by EY revealed that CEOs are transforming into global leaders, tackling complex challenges and prioritizing long-term value creation.
According to the study, CEOs are no longer just stewards of their own businesses. Instead, they are developing into global leaders with the influence to tackle the world's most complex challenges.
Julie Linn Teigland, Managing Partner of EY Europe, Middle East, India, and Africa, stated, 'I am thrilled to see this change. In my work spanning more than two decades, I have worked to find ways to support organisations and CEOs on their transformative journeys.'
The study found that more than 90 percent of investors and directors in Europe, Middle East, and Africa (EMEA) believe CEOs should take a stand on issues. This is substantially higher than their counterparts in the Americas and Asia-Pacific.
CEOs in EMEA are also more likely to favour corporate activism and focus on long-term investment. Investors in EMEA are more supportive of CEOs who focus on long-term investment, with 73 percent supporting long-term investments that could improve long-term business prospects even if they diminish near-term financial performance.
The study also highlighted the need for CEOs to transform the C-suite, board, and investors to work around a shared approach and action plan. Embracing transformation, cultural and structural, will enable CEOs to grow the weight and value of their corporations in the economy and in society.
