First launched globally ten years ago, this year’s KPMG CEO Outlook report collates insights from more than 1,300 global business leaders overseeing companies with revenues of at least US$500 million from some of the world’s largest economies and key industries. Amid the wave of unprecedented challenges, CEOs not only face heightened pressure to retain business growth and resilience but also contend with waning confidence in the global economy.
Yet, global leaders remain resilient, steering their businesses toward sustainable growth. They continue to create a solid foundation by betting big on AI and bolstering their workforce to adapt to evolving business needs. This year’s survey has shown that CEOs remain optimistic about their organization’s future, with 92 percent of leaders looking to increase the overall headcount of their workforce. However, they also recognize the need to future-proof their workforce by enhancing skills and boosting employee value propositions to attract and retain talent. Striking the right balance between ambition and caution will be essential for CEOs as they navigate ESG issues, ensuring they meet stakeholder expectations and, more importantly, do what is right.