A new study by Russell Reynolds Associates (RRA) reveals that 58% of C-suite leaders in Asia Pacific (APAC) view technological change and geopolitical uncertainty as the joint top threats to their organisations. The findings, drawn from RRA’s H1 2026 Global Leadership Monitor, highlight significant gaps in leadership preparedness across the region.
Despite the prominence of geopolitical risks, only 36% of APAC leaders feel equipped to handle such volatility. Similarly, whilst 44% recognise talent and skills availability as a major threat, just 33% feel prepared to address it. The study also notes a disparity in enthusiasm and execution regarding Generative AI (GenAI); although 94% of leaders see it as crucial, fewer than 40% report its use in daily operations.
The research underscores the importance of soft skills over technical expertise, with strategic thinking (57%) and change management (29%) identified as critical capabilities. However, next-generation leaders face challenges in career progression, with only 40% seeing a clear path forward in their current roles.
Country-specific insights reveal varying concerns: in Greater China, geopolitics is the highest threat (73%), whilst Japan struggles with talent preparedness (27%). In Singapore, cyber readiness is high (87%), yet GenAI skills lag at 20%.
The study suggests that APAC leaders must bridge the gap between AI strategy and execution and address the high mobility of top-tier talent, driven by cultural alignment and career advancement rather than compensation alone.
