According to Mercer’s 2025 Executive Outlook study, which gathered insights from 400 business leaders, including 175 CEOs and 101 CFOs, a clear focus has emerged on driving growth and enhancing productivity despite the array of global risks facing businesses today. The study reveals that executives are deeply committed to creating sustainable success and are strategically reassessing and recalibrating where they allocate their time and resources. In a rapidly changing business environment, this shift is particularly significant, as leaders are becoming more intentional about how they navigate both short-term challenges and long-term opportunities.
The study emphasizes that companies must embrace a contextual, data-driven approach to decision-making. With an increasing reliance on analytics and real-time information, business leaders are better equipped to assess risks, spot trends, and adapt their strategies accordingly. This shift reflects a broader trend in corporate leadership, where traditional approaches to management are evolving in favor of more flexible, responsive, and informed decision-making processes.
Despite these forward-looking strategies, the report also highlights that near-term risks continue to dominate the global landscape. According to the 2025 Global Risks Report, threats like misinformation, extreme weather events, and geopolitical instability, such as armed conflicts, are among the most pressing concerns for businesses worldwide. These risks present significant challenges to companies, making it crucial for executives to adapt quickly and effectively.
The current global environment is one in which disruption is frequent and unpredictable. For companies to survive and thrive, innovation is essential. Leaders are tasked with ensuring that their businesses remain agile, capable of pivoting quickly in response to external shocks. This might involve adopting new technologies, diversifying supply chains, or investing in sustainability efforts that can withstand the pressures of environmental or social change.
One of the central takeaways from the study is the growing recognition that traditional business models must evolve to meet the demands of an increasingly volatile world. CEOs are increasingly aware that in order to achieve long-term success, they cannot afford to remain static in their approach to growth. Instead, they must foster a culture of continuous improvement, innovation, and adaptability, making strategic decisions based on a combination of foresight and real-time data.
Ultimately, the findings of Mercer’s 2025 Executive Outlook study send a clear message: in today’s complex business environment, the key to success lies in balancing ambition with caution, and innovation with strategic planning. CEOs who remain focused on growth, productivity, and adaptability will be best positioned to navigate the uncertainties of the global landscape while securing sustainable, long-term business success.
