Leadership
A New Generation of CEOs Emerges in Saudi Arabia
Korn Ferry’s new study shows a shift in CEO trends on Tadawul: younger, tech-forward, and strategically sharp leaders are now leading Saudi’s top companies.
April 30, 2025
Korn Ferry’s recent analysis of the Saudi Stock Exchange (Tadawul) highlights a notable shift in leadership: the average age of CEOs among the top 100 listed companies has declined from 51 in 2023 to 45 today. This change reflects a growing openness to younger leaders who bring fresh perspectives and a solid understanding of technology and innovation.
Beyond age, there’s also a clear rise in first-time CEOs stepping into top executive roles. Organizations are increasingly willing to appoint emerging leaders who demonstrate adaptability and strategic thinking—skills that are becoming essential in today’s evolving business environment. Many of these new CEOs come from finance and operations backgrounds, underscoring the continued importance of analytical and execution-focused experience.
“Boards and CEOs are looking for leaders that bring innovative thinking and adaptability,” says Danny Leinders, Head of Executive Search in Korn Ferry MENA, pointing to a broader trend in leadership priorities. As industries navigate digital transformation and economic diversification, the ability to lead change effectively is taking precedence over traditional leadership tenure.
These shifts are supported by long-term investments in leadership development, succession planning, and national talent strategies across both the public and private sectors. As a result, more locally developed leaders are stepping into key roles and contributing to the Kingdom’s transformation efforts.
The emergence of younger and first-time CEOs marks a meaningful evolution in leadership dynamics. Companies that invest in supporting and developing this new wave of leaders will be better equipped to respond to market changes and sustain growth in an increasingly competitive environment.
Explore the full insights in Korn Ferry’s latest CEO Succession Study and Board Readiness Report to understand how organizations can prepare for what’s next.
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