Egon Zehnder’s latest global CEO survey, unveiled at the Berlin Global Dialogue, reveals that APAC CEOs are more confident in navigating AI and geopolitical pressures than their global peers. The study, which surveyed 843 CEOs, including 70 from the Asia-Pacific (APAC), highlights artificial intelligence as a critical concern for chief executives worldwide.
APAC CEOs anticipate more geopolitical disruptions in the coming year, with 73% expecting increased turbulence compared to 62% globally. Despite this, 78% of APAC leaders rate their organisations’ readiness to adapt at 7 or above on a 10-point scale, a significant rise from 31% in 2024. Globally, this readiness measure has declined from 64% to 58%.
AI is considered a critical challenge by 94% of APAC CEOs, slightly higher than the global figure of 91%. Francesco Buquicchio, Global CEO of Egon Zehnder, emphasised the importance of understanding where AI can make a difference and who has the skills to implement it.
APAC leaders also prioritise innovation, with 54% citing it as a major change, compared to 48% globally. Informal CEO networks are valued by 72% of APAC leaders, significantly higher than the global rate of 47%.
German Herrera, Chair of Egon Zehnder, noted the importance of judgement and curiosity in navigating these challenges. The survey underscores the need for APAC CEOs to integrate inner leadership capabilities with outer skills for success.
The CEO Response study provides insights into how leaders are preparing for an increasingly complex global environment, with findings presented at the Berlin Global Dialogue.
