InterSearch Worldwide, in collaboration with the Board Network – The Danish Professional Directors Association, is pleased to present the Global Board Survey 2025 – Coping With Discomfort. Now in its tenth edition, this comprehensive study gathers insights from 3,034 corporate chairs and board members across 83 countries, shedding light on the key trends, challenges, and strategic priorities shaping global boardrooms.
A Shifting Corporate Landscape
The year 2025 finds corporate boards at a strategic crossroads. Faced with rapid geopolitical shifts, economic uncertainties, and technological advancements, organizations across industries must adapt to an environment where the traditional corporate playbook is no longer sufficient.
As global business ecosystems undergo profound transformation, boards are being tested like never before. Geopolitical instability, trade barriers, and the disruptive impact of AI have emerged as dominant forces shaping boardroom decision-making. These challenges come on top of ongoing concerns around sustainability, governance effectiveness, and the ever-evolving expectations of stakeholders.
Key Findings from the Global Board Survey 2025
Megatrends Shaping Boardrooms
Four major forces are at the forefront of boardroom discussions:
- Geopolitical instability and war (77% of respondents see this as the top external factor impacting their business).
- AI and digitalization, both as a competitive advantage and a governance challenge.
- Growing nationalism, leading to shifts in trade policies, supply chains, and regulatory pressures.
- Sanctions and trade barriers, which are reshaping international business strategies.
Board Composition and Competence Gaps
With boards spending more time than ever on governance matters, many directors acknowledge the need for new skills and perspectives. The most pressing gaps include:
- AI and digitalization expertise – 25% of respondents cited AI as the top skill they would prioritize when adding a new board member.
- Cyber risk and data privacy – A major area of concern, with boards recognizing a need for improved oversight.
- Talent management and succession planning – 31% of boards admit that they lack adequate CEO and executive succession strategies.
Despite increased awareness of these gaps, many boards continue to rely on traditional recruitment methods, with personal networks still dominating board appointments. However, a growing number (46%) now turn to executive search firms to ensure a more structured and diverse selection process.
Leadership and Strategic Resilience
The report also highlights a growing disconnect between boards and executive teams.
- While many board members express concerns over CEO effectiveness, only 38% believe their executive management team does not require any changes—a drop from 53% last year.
- Board remuneration remains a point of contention, with many directors feeling that compensation does not reflect the increasing demands of their roles.
- Board evaluations are becoming more widespread, with 71% of organizations now conducting structured performance assessments—up from 66% last year.
Navigating Disruption: The Path Forward
Boards that successfully adapt to today’s volatile business environment will be those that embrace strategic agility, digital transformation, and geopolitical awareness. The survey provides a clear roadmap for board members seeking to enhance their effectiveness in an increasingly complex world.
🔹 Strategic Optionality – Boards must develop multiple scenarios for growth and risk mitigation, rather than relying on a single strategy.
🔹 AI Integration – AI-driven insights should become a core component of boardroom decision-making.
🔹 Enhanced Geopolitical Awareness – Boards must actively monitor regulatory shifts and international trade developments to anticipate potential disruptions.
🔹 A Renewed Focus on Talent – Succession planning and leadership development must become boardroom priorities.
As boards worldwide face growing pressures and uncertainties, the ability to adapt and innovate will define future success. The Global Board Survey 2025 offers essential insights for governance leaders seeking to future-proof their organizations.
Download the full report here: Global Board Survey 2025 – Coping with discomfort – Report
Special recognition to the author of the survey and the publication, Jakob Stengel, Managing Partner of Case Rose | InterSearch, Global Head of Board Practice and Founder & Chairman of Board Network – The Danish Professional Directors Association.
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