Boards across Saudi Arabia and the GCC are raising the bar for CEOs. This article highlights the key qualities modern boards priorities, from strategic vision to ESG commitment, with examples relevant to the region.
The Top Qualities Boards Look for in Today’s CEOs
Introduction
The expectations placed on CEOs have never been higher. In the GCC and particularly Saudi
Arabia—where Vision 2030 is reshaping entire industries boards are seeking leaders who can
navigate transformation, embrace innovation, and deliver long-term impact.
This article explores the top qualities boards prioritize when appointing CEOs today, with
examples tailored to the Saudi and GCC business environment.
- Strategic Vision Aligned with National Agendas
Boards are not just looking for CEOs who can grow profits; they want leaders who can align
organizational strategy with broader national priorities.
In Saudi Arabia, that means aligning business growth with Vision 2030, from digital
transformation in finance to sustainability in energy and tourism.
A successful CEO is expected to anticipate market shifts and position the company as a
contributor to national development goals. - Adaptability in Rapidly Changing Markets
The GCC has witnessed unprecedented change oil market volatility, economic diversification,
and global disruptions like COVID-19.
Boards favor CEOs who can pivot quickly, whether it’s entering new industries,
adopting new technologies, or reshaping business models.
Example: During the pandemic, several GCC retail and F&B companies survived
because their CEOs quickly embraced digital commerce and restructured supply
chains. - People Leadership and Talent Development
A CEO’s ability to inspire and retain talent is central to long-term success. In a region where
over 60% of the population is under 30, nurturing young talent is a priority.
Boards seek CEOs with strong emotional intelligence, communication skills, and
inclusivity.
Companies in the GCC increasingly value leaders who develop local talent while
leveraging global expertise. - Digital and Technological Savvy
With Saudi Arabia ranked among the top 10 countries in digital competitiveness, boards
expect CEOs to be digitally fluent.
From AI-driven decision-making to fintech adoption, leaders must understand how to
harness technology for growth.
They don’t need to be engineers but they must know how to drive digital
transformation initiatives. - Global and Cultural Intelligence
The GCC is home to some of the world’s most international business environments, with
expatriates making up over 70% of the workforce in certain sectors.
Boards want CEOs who can navigate cross-cultural teams, global markets, and
geopolitical dynamics.
Example: A Saudi-based logistics company expanding into Africa and Asia needs a CEO
who can manage international expansion while respecting local cultures.
- Commitment to ESG and Responsible Leadership
Sustainability and governance are no longer optional—they are board-level priorities.
With Saudi Arabia’s Net Zero 2060 commitment and the UAE’s leadership in
renewable energy, boards want CEOs who balance profitability with purpose.
A strong CEO champions ESG initiatives, from reducing carbon footprints to driving
community engagement.
Conclusion
In today’s competitive and fast-changing GCC business landscape, boards demand more than
operational excellence from CEOs. They seek leaders who are:
Visionary and aligned with national agendas
Adaptable in the face of disruption
People-focused and talent-driven
Digitally fluent and innovation-minded
Globally and culturally aware
Committed to ESG and responsible governance
For organizations, the challenge lies in identifying and attracting such multifaceted leaders.
Partnering with a specialized executive search firm in Saudi Arabia and the GCC ensures
access to a global network of talent with the right mix of vision, agility, and cultural fit.