The figures speak for themselves
According to Business Insider, 646 CEOs left their posts in the first quarter of 2025 in the USA alone – a historic high. The analysis by Russell Reynolds also confirms this trend worldwide: never before have so many CEO changes been recorded in such a short space of time as in the past year. The increase in the technology sector is particularly striking – with an increase in turnover of around 90 %.
There are also clear changes in German-speaking countries. Consulting.de reports that the average length of stay of CEOs in DACH has fallen to just 5.1 years – a low that makes the volatility and strain on top management palpable.
The causes are manifold
Whether it’s a generational change, growing pressure to transform, geopolitical uncertainty or personal exhaustion: the reasons for managers leaving are complex. What remains is a central challenge for companies: Succession is often unresolved.
Many organisations are suddenly faced with a vacuum – without concrete plans, without suitable candidates, without a strategic approach. It is clear that filling a key role is far more than just a personnel issue. It is about sustainability, culture and continuity.
PAWLIK Executive: Executive search with depth of focus
At PAWLIK Executive, we support companies at precisely this point. Our approach goes beyond traditional recruitment logic:
- Diagnostic depth: We use sound tools to analyse not only the candidate’s profile, but also the company’s system.
- Cultural fit: Today, leadership must do more than just function operationally. It must connect, motivate and create meaning.
- International reach: Thanks to our global network, we identify personalities with impact – both locally and globally.
Our claim: We design transitions that work.
Conclusion: Whoever fills positions wisely today, shapes tomorrow.
Succession is not an HR process. It is a strategic turning point.
2025 shows more clearly than ever: organisations don’t need quick fixes – they need the right people at the top.
PAWLIK Executive helps to find exactly these people. For leadership that lasts. And change that succeeds.
