2025 CEO Report: A Blueprint for Future CEOs
Learn how company size, strategic priorities, and leadership alignment shape the journey to the top with actionable insights for aspiring leaders and hiring organizations.
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Utilizing first- and third-party data, we’ve analyzed 25,000 candidates and current CEOs to uncover key insights into the evolving landscape of executive leadership.
Experience is the defining factor.
Organizations are overwhelmingly drawn to candidates who have already navigated the complexities of the top job.
While 40% of CEO candidates boast prior experience in the role, a staggering 69% of those hired have previously served as CEOs.
First-time CEOs.
Executive search experts at ON Partners highlight that while prior CEO experience is often preferred, first-time CEOs can achieve remarkable success when the right alignment and preparation are in place.
“For those aiming to step into their first CEO role, don’t be discouraged by the preference for prior experience—many first-time CEOs deliver exceptional results. To prepare, focus on owning a true P&L and demonstrating accountability for financial outcomes. Successful P&L leadership is key to earning a Board’s confidence.”
– Tim Conti, Partner at ON Partners
“In niche industries, deep expertise and strong relationships often outweigh prior CEO experience. In two recent PE searches, both hires were first-time CEOs chosen for their intimate industry knowledge—critical for companies late in their hold periods with no time for a learning curve.”
– Tara Flickinger, Partner at ON Partners
“Checking the right boxes for your first CEO opportunity; deep industry expertise, company size, GTM overlap, or successful work history with the Board—is critical. The reality is, if your first CEO opportunity isn’t successful, it can reset your timeline for another shot at a similar role, regardless of the circumstances.Taking the time to align your strengths with the right opportunity can make all the difference in building a lasting CEO trajectory.”
– Jake Espenlaub, Partner at ON Partners
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