The average age of a CEO in Australia today is around 47, younger than at any other time. As executives climb the ranks faster, their time in power seems to be shrinking. According to recent data from Equilar and Russell Reynolds, published in the Australian Financial Review (AFR), the median tenure for CEOs in large U.S. companies has dropped by more than 20% over the last decade. Today, a CEO’s tenure is down to just 4.7 years, while CFOs are faring slightly better, with an average tenure of 5.7 years.

This shift presents an extraordinary challenge for leaders: they must deliver results quickly in an increasingly pressurised environment. The goldfish bowl of the C-suite demands not only that leaders perform at their peak but that they do so under intense scrutiny, with heightened expectations and increasingly shorter timeframes.

For today’s leaders, having the right team and nurturing essential relationships has never been more crucial. Success is also rooted in a deep sense of purpose – both personal and organisational. A clear vision and practical strategies to achieve company goals are critical. But that’s not all: leaders must continuously commit to learning and growth to keep pace with the evolving demands of their roles.

To develop these skills leaders can work with an Executive coach in a safe space for learning, reflection, purpose and planning, and development. Coaches can help leaders to develop new skills, sustain high levels of performance, and develop new perspectives. And importantly build out teams that support their vision and organisational demands.

ECI Partners

To connect with us about executive coaching please contact us here.