Discover the DNA of Future CEOs

Globalization, economic change, more stringent regulation and tougher governance make realizing shareholder value increasingly difficult. Never has it been more critical for companies not only to have the right leader in place, but a visible pipeline of high potential individuals ‘in-waiting’. Despite the immense challenges of the role, its prestige and visibility continue to create no shortage of people who aspire to become a CEO. So why do people strive to attain this pinnacle position and how do organizations identify the right attributes to make sure they invest in those individuals genuinely capable of reaching the top job?

Korn/Ferry Whitehead Mann interviewed 70 CEOs, Chairs, NEDs and HR Directors to understand what are the most important drivers and characteristics of those with future CEO potential and how to identify them. Interviewees were asked about related issues including whether CEOs are born or made, and what differences there are between men and women aspiring for the CEO role.