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The Smartest People In The Room®

32% of companies hire external CEOs

32% of Companies Hire External CEOs or Have No Internal Candidates Ready

1
min.
read

When nearly one-third of companies either hire externally or admit they have no internal options ready, we’re not talking about a preference. We’re talking about a problem.

This signals more than a talent gap—it reveals a failure of leadership development. Organizations are either not spotting high potentials early enough, or not investing in their growth once identified. The result? A brittle leadership pipeline.

External hires can work. But they often come with risk, ramp-up time, and cultural dissonance. Internal candidates, when properly coached and prepared, offer continuity, credibility, and connection.

A coaching-first mindset helps surface latent potential. It challenges assumptions, builds emotional intelligence, and gives future leaders the stretch assignments and feedback loops they need to step up.

The bench isn’t thin by accident. It’s thin by neglect.

Meet the Author

Global Scale.
Boutique Feel.

We are in the markets that matter, but we show up like we’re part of your team. Hands-on, high-touch, and built around your goals.