US Companies Undergo Unprecedented CEO Turnover in 2025
In a dramatic shift for corporate America, US public companies experienced a record rate of CEO turnover in 2025, with one in nine leaders replaced. This marks the highest turnover rate since 2010, signalling a significant transformation in executive leadership across the nation.
Youth and Inexperience Define New Leadership Wave
The new chief executives stepping into these roles are typically younger, with an average age of 54. Over 80 per cent of those appointed in 2025 were first-timers, lacking prior experience in running major public companies. This trend represents a bold move by firms to inject fresh perspectives into their top echelons.
Market Forces Drive the 'Grand Experiment in Leadership'
This surge in leadership changes is being described as a grand experiment in leadership, driven by shifting market pressures, post-pandemic challenges, political disruptions, and the rapid rise of artificial intelligence. Companies with a combined market capitalisation of $1.3 trillion appointed new leaders in the final quarter of last year alone, and the trend has continued into 2026 with major firms like Disney and Walmart making high-profile changes.
Decline in Female CEO Appointments Raises Concerns
Despite the overall wave of change, the proportion of female CEO appointees declined to just nine per cent in 2025, down from 15 per cent the previous year. This drop highlights ongoing challenges in achieving gender diversity at the highest levels of corporate leadership.
The record-breaking CEO turnover underscores a pivotal moment for US businesses as they navigate complex economic landscapes and embrace new leadership strategies to stay competitive.
