The Scotsman Exclusive: What It Takes to Become a CEO in Scotland – Insights from Livingston James & EY
Highlights from Livingston James’ latest Future CEO report, produced in association with EY, were featured in an exclusive article by The Scotsman. The study draws on insights from more than 200 senior leaders across the public, private, and third sectors, and shows significant shifts in leadership expectations.
Key Findings
Vision and determination were rated the most important future CEO traits (68%), reflecting the need for clarity and stability in uncertain times. Resilience followed closely (50%), as leaders navigate increasing volatility, and emotional intelligence has surged in importance, marking a shift towards more human‑centred leadership.
Despite strong ambition, succession planning gaps persist, with 25% of CEOs reporting that no one in their organisation is ready to step into their role.
Ali Shaw, Director at Livingston James, notes:
“Our findings underline the need for more deliberate leadership development and exposure to cross-functional experience.”
Cara Heaney, EY Scotland, adds:
“Softer skills – particularly emotional intelligence – are now just as critical as vision, determination and resilience. Organisations must be more intentional in developing future CEOs.”
In this piece, Neave Cadenhead, Research Associate at Livingston James, offers a dual perspective shaped by both lived experience and close work with senior leaders across the UK.
Livingston James’ Research Associate, Tara Tannock, draws on both personal experience and academic insight to explore the often-overlooked human dynamics shaping the UK agricultural sector.
In his latest article for The HR Director, Livingston James Director Ali Shaw explores whether today’s uncertain business environment could reshape the pathway to CEO, creating new opportunities for HR leaders.
The Scotsman Exclusive: What It Takes to Become a CEO in Scotland – Insights from Livingston James & EY
Highlights from Livingston James’ latest Future CEO report, produced in association with EY, were featured in an exclusive article by The Scotsman. The study draws on insights from more than 200 senior leaders across the public, private, and third sectors, and shows significant shifts in leadership expectations.
Key Findings
Vision and determination were rated the most important future CEO traits (68%), reflecting the need for clarity and stability in uncertain times. Resilience followed closely (50%), as leaders navigate increasing volatility, and emotional intelligence has surged in importance, marking a shift towards more human‑centred leadership.
Despite strong ambition, succession planning gaps persist, with 25% of CEOs reporting that no one in their organisation is ready to step into their role.
Ali Shaw, Director at Livingston James, notes:
Cara Heaney, EY Scotland, adds:
Learn More
Read The Scotsman exclusive here.
Access the full Future CEO Report here.
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