CEO & Succession
CEO succession: four steps boards often skip
Editorial draft · Publication date awaiting approval
Sample editorial content awaiting review and sourcing. Not a verified research publication or advice for a specific appointment.
Most boards say succession is a priority. Fewer have a plan they could act on next month.
Start with the strategy, not the candidates. Agree what the business will need from its next leader over the next five to seven years.
Assess internal candidates honestly and early, and give them stretch roles that test the gaps you find.
Benchmark them against external leaders so the board knows what good looks like in the market.
Keep an emergency plan on file. An unplanned departure should never leave the company without a clear interim leader.