The “Route to the Top 2025” report by Heidrick & Struggles examines the global landscape of CEO succession planning, revealing that only 26% of CEOs and board members consider it a top priority. Despite its importance, many boards are not actively engaged in the process, often relegating it to the background. The report identifies three prevailing mindsets regarding CEO succession 

Heidrick & Struggles’ latest report delves into the current state of CEO succession planning globally, highlighting the challenges boards face in prioritizing this critical responsibility and offering insights into potential future trends.

  1. Top Priority
    Boards that treat succession planning as a continuous agenda item, viewing it as both an individual and collective responsibility.
  2. Occasional Priority
    Boards that acknowledge its importance but often overlook it due to other pressing matters.
  3. Low Priority
    Boards that seldom address succession planning, often due to a lack of motivation or stakeholder interest.

The report also highlights the increasing demand for executive involvement in the succession process, with CEOs advocating for more input from their teams. Additionally, the study emphasizes the need for boards to adopt a more proactive and strategic approach to ensure a seamless transition and sustained organizational success. 

For associations, effective leadership succession planning is crucial to maintaining continuity and achieving long-term goals. This report offers valuable insights into the challenges and best practices in CEO succession, providing a roadmap for associations to enhance their leadership strategies and ensure a robust pipeline of future leaders.