KPMG 2021 CEO Outlook

KPMG 2021 CEO OUTLOOK

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Optimism is back in the boardroom

It’s been about 18 months since the World Health Organization declared a global pandemic, and the latest edition of our CEO Outlook survey gauges how leadership strategies and concerns have shifted during these demanding times. CEOs are confident in the growth prospects of their company and the global economy in general. They feel a strong connection to their organization’s purpose and are looking to expand their business to emerge stronger.

Drawing on the perspectives of 1,325 chief executives across 11 major markets, this year’s survey offers a lens on how today’s connected CEOs are plugged-in, people-first and purpose-led. Overall, three themes emerged: the road to renewal and leaders’ optimism about the path to growth, the importance of following through on a trusted purpose by driving bold environmental, social and governance (ESG) programs, and the determination of CEOs to instill new levels of digital agility.

Greek insights from 50 Greek CEOs from an array of sectors and organizations:

82% express confidence in their country's growth prospects over the next three years
76% express increased confidence in the growth prospects of the global economy in the next three years
82% invest in “leading with purpose”
80% are optimistic for the prospect of developing their own business in three years
Acquisitions & Mergers are crucial to support the growth and acquisition of digital capabilities for 84%
92% report that they increasingly consider themselves personally responsible for their actions in addressing social issues
46% plan to invest more than 10% of their revenue to make their business more sustainable
84% say global leaders need to inject the necessary urgency in their climate agenda at COP26
74% wants to proceed in new partnerships to maintain the pace of digital transformation
46% agrees with working remotely for most of their employees, two days a week, with 56% wishing to invest in shared office spaces
Only 34% support increased investment in disruption and innovation processes

Despite the continued uncertainty around the pandemic, CEOs are increasingly confident that the global economy is coming back strong. This confidence has put leadership in an aggressive growth stance. While inorganic growth strategies are a priority, CEOs are also looking to expand organically and continue to assess the future of work to ensure they can attract top talent. If there is a positive to come out of the past 18 months, it is that CEOs are increasingly putting ESG at the heart of their recovery and long-term growth strategies. The unfolding climate and societal crises have made it clear that we need to change our ways and work together. I’m encouraged about what the future holds because business leaders are acknowledging that they need to be the drivers of positive change, supporting measures to tackle environmental dangers, as well as societal challenges — from gender and race, to equity and social mobility.

Bill Thomas

Global Chairman and CEO

KPMG International