The Leadership Reset: Why Companies Are Replacing More Executives Than They Are Adding

For much of the last decade, executive hiring was closely tied to expansion. Growing companies added new business units, entered new markets, launched digital initiatives, and created leadership roles to support growth.


Today, the picture looks markedly different.


While demand for senior leadership remains strong, a growing share of executive hiring is being driven by replacement rather than expansion. Across industries, boards and leadership teams are increasingly focused on succession planning, retirement-related transitions, and upgrading leadership capabilities to meet rapidly evolving business demands.


In many organizations, the question is no longer, "What new leadership roles do we need?" Instead, it has become, "Do we have the right leaders for the future we are building?"


Several converging trends are driving this shift.


A Wave of Leadership Turnover

Leadership turnover continues to accelerate across public and private companies. According to research cited by Harvard Business Review, CEO succession rates reached 12.5% in 2025, up significantly from 9.8% the prior year. At the same time, more than 2,000 CEO departures were recorded in the United States, reflecting one of the most active succession environments in recent decades.


Boards are also becoming more willing to look externally for leadership talent. Recent data show that 44% of CEO appointments among S&P 1500 companies came from outside the organization, a level near a 25-year high.


This growing willingness to seek external leadership reflects a broader reality: many organizations believe that the skills required for the next phase of growth may not be fully represented within their current leadership teams.


The Retirement Factor Is Becoming Impossible to Ignore

Demographics are creating another powerful force behind replacement hiring.


Large numbers of Baby Boomers continue to exit the workforce, creating leadership gaps across industries. While retirement timing varies by sector and geography, organizations are increasingly confronting the loss of decades of institutional knowledge and leadership experience.


Many companies spent the past several years postponing succession discussions while navigating economic uncertainty, inflation, and labor market disruption. As a result, some organizations are now facing a compressed timeline to identify and develop the next generation of leaders.


The challenge extends beyond simply filling vacancies. In many cases, companies are discovering that there are fewer experienced leaders available than expected, particularly in specialized industries where leadership pipelines have not kept pace with retirements. Evidence of these pressures is appearing across both public and private sectors as organizations report increasing difficulty replacing highly experienced senior talent.


From Replacement to Upgrade

Not all replacement hiring is driven by turnover.


An increasingly common scenario involves organizations replacing leaders who are performing adequately but lack the capabilities required for future business needs.


Economic uncertainty has made many organizations cautious about adding headcount. Instead of creating new executive positions, boards are asking whether existing leadership structures are optimized for growth, profitability, and transformation.


Recruiters and talent advisors report a significant increase in confidential replacement searches, particularly for leadership positions impacted by AI, digital transformation, operational efficiency, and changing customer expectations. Rather than expanding leadership teams, organizations are investing in stronger leadership capability within existing roles.


This represents a meaningful shift from previous cycles. Historically, executive hiring often accompanied organizational growth. Today, many leadership searches are designed to improve execution, accelerate transformation, or close capability gaps.


AI Is Raising the Leadership Bar

Artificial intelligence is emerging as one of the strongest drivers of leadership upgrades.


Boards increasingly expect executives to understand not only their functional disciplines but also how AI will reshape business models, workflows, workforce planning, customer engagement, and competitive advantage.


Organizations are reassessing leadership teams through a new lens: adaptability.


Leaders are being evaluated on their ability to navigate technological disruption, lead workforce transformation, make data-driven decisions, and build organizations capable of operating in a rapidly changing environment. Companies across industries are investing heavily in AI capabilities and adjusting talent strategies accordingly.


As a result, many executive searches today are less about filling a vacancy and more about acquiring capabilities that did not exist as leadership requirements even a few years ago.


What Corporate Leaders Should Be Thinking About

The implications for boards, CEOs, and CHROs are significant.


Organizations that treat leadership succession as an occasional event may find themselves competing for scarce talent at precisely the moment they need continuity and stability. Meanwhile, companies that regularly assess leadership capabilities against future business requirements will be better positioned to navigate both retirements and transformation.


The most successful organizations are no longer viewing succession planning and executive hiring as separate activities. They are treating both as part of a broader leadership strategy focused on future readiness.


The executive hiring market in 2026 remains active, but the underlying motivation has changed. For many organizations, the priority is not adding more leaders. It is ensuring they have the right leaders for what comes next.

By Effie Zimmerman August 13, 2026
Chief Operations Officer ABOUT THE COMPANY STUDSON is a fast-growing safety technology company based in Sherwood, Oregon, redefining industrial head protection. Founded in 2019, the company designs premium Type II safety helmets that incorporate advanced impact protection technology commonly found in sports helmets, helping construction and industrial workers get home safely every day. Driven by innovation and a strong mission, STUDSON is challenging a century of conventional hard hat design and is quickly becoming a recognized leader in the industrial safety market. ABOUT THE ROLE STUDSON is transforming industrial head protection through innovative technology, premium product design, and an uncompromising commitment to worker safety. Having established a strong market position and a solid operational foundation, the company is entering its next phase of growth. To support that growth, STUDSON is seeking a Chief Operating Officer to build the organizational operating system that will enable the business to scale while preserving the speed, innovation, and entrepreneurial culture that define the company today. Reporting directly to the Founder & CEO, the COO will be responsible for translating strategy into disciplined execution across the organization. While overseeing the company's operational functions—including supply chain, sourcing, planning, customer success, and quality —the primary mandate is broader: to create alignment, accountability, and repeatable processes that allow the organization to execute consistently as it grows. This executive will partner closely with every functional leader to improve cross-functional collaboration, strengthen decision-making, and establish operational processes that allow the business to move faster with greater clarity. Success will not be measured by maintaining operations, but by building an organization capable of scaling efficiently while delivering exceptional customer and financial outcomes. The ideal candidate is an experienced operator who has helped high-growth companies evolve from entrepreneurial organizations into disciplined, process-driven businesses without sacrificing agility or innovation. Essential Duties and Responsibilities Organizational Leadership & Operating Excellence Partner with the CEO to translate strategic priorities into company-wide execution plans. Design and implement a scalable business operating system that establishes standard work, management routines, visual performance management, and continuous improvement practices across the organization. Champion a culture of continuous improvement, equipping leaders with practical problem-solving methodologies that eliminate waste, improve execution, and increase organizational agility. Lead cross-functional process improvement initiatives that simplify workflows, reduce complexity, and improve quality, speed, and customer outcomes. Build management processes that improve alignment, accountability, communication, and execution across all functions. Develop an organization capable of scaling efficiently without creating unnecessary bureaucracy. Process Improvement & Business Scalability Lead the continuous evolution of business processes across the organization, leveraging existing technology platforms to improve execution rather than adding complexity. Standardize workflows where appropriate while preserving flexibility and entrepreneurial speed. Identify operational bottlenecks and implement practical solutions that improve throughput, responsiveness, and organizational effectiveness. Foster a culture of continuous improvement, disciplined execution, and data-informed decision-making. Supply Chain & Operational Performance Lead the end-to-end supply chain, including procurement, manufacturing partners, inventory planning, logistics, fulfillment, and customer success. Ensure operational capabilities support both current growth and future product expansion. Strengthen forecasting, inventory management, and S&OP disciplines to improve service levels while optimizing working capital. Build resilient supplier relationships and continuously improve quality, delivery, and cost performance. Cross-Functional Execution Partner with Product Development to ensure successful commercialization of new products. Collaborate with Sales and Marketing to improve demand planning, product availability, and customer responsiveness. Work closely with Finance to improve forecasting accuracy, margin performance, and operational planning. Support Human Resources in developing organizational capability, leadership effectiveness, and performance management. Business Performance Develop meaningful KPI’s and operational scorecards that provide visibility into company performance. Improve operational efficiency, gross margin, inventory productivity, customer satisfaction, and organizational responsiveness. Balance growth, profitability, and operational risk while maintaining STUDSON's commitment to quality and customer experience. People & Culture Build and develop a high-performing operational team grounded in accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement. Create clarity around expectations, priorities, and decision rights throughout the organization. Help preserve STUDSON's entrepreneurial culture while introducing the operational discipline required for continued growth. IDEAL CANDIDATE Fifteen or more years of progressive leadership experience in operations, supply chain, or general management within a high-growth manufacturing organization. Demonstrated experience implementing or leading a business operating system such as Lean, the Toyota Production System, or a comparable continuous improvement framework that improved organizational performance and scalability. Strong understanding of operational excellence principles, including process mapping, root cause analysis, visual management, standard work, and KPI-driven performance management. Proven ability to build continuous improvement capabilities within leadership teams by coaching managers to solve problems systematically and sustain operational gains. Experience leading cross-functional business transformation rather than simply managing functional operations. Strong understanding of supply chain, sourcing, manufacturing, inventory planning, and customer operations. Proven ability to leverage an ERP and business systems to improve execution, reporting, and decision-making. Strong financial acumen with experience improving margins, working capital, and operational performance. Exceptional leadership presence with the ability to influence across functions and levels. Comfortable operating in an entrepreneurial, founder-led environment where adaptability, humility, and hands-on leadership are essential. Interested in Learning More? 180one has been retained by STUDSON to manage this search. If interested in learning more about the opportunity, please contact Tom Haley / 503.334.1350/ tom@180one.com .
By Effie Zimmerman August 7, 2026
Director, Operations and Supply Chain ABOUT THE COMPANY Warn Automotive (Warn Auto) is a world leader in driveline disconnect technology. Their heritage comes from making WWII surplus Jeeps easier to drive on the road with the first unlocking hubs. They continue today by making disconnects for cars, trucks, and SUVs around the world. These trusted technologies come from years of innovation and listening to customer needs. Warn Auto designs, tests, and manufactures best-in-class products and solutions focusing on our customers’ productivity, efficiency, and profitability. To do that, their teams collaborate worldwide to share knowledge, research, and resources, which have kept them strong and stable since 1925. Warn Auto is a Vehicle Service Group (VSG) company that is part of Dover Corporation ’s Engineered Products segment and is the holding company for some of the most trusted names in the vehicle service industry. ABOUT THE ROLE The Director of Operations & Supply Chain is responsible for leading all manufacturing, logistics, and supply chain functions for the Warn Auto business. This role drives operational performance, profitability, quality, and on-time delivery while fostering a culture of safety, continuous improvement, and employee development. Working closely with Dover and Vehicle Service Group leadership, the incumbent develops and executes operational strategies, leverages enterprise resources, and aligns teams, metrics, and processes to achieve business objectives and support long-term growth. KEY Responsibilities Oversee and direct overall production, including efficient use of equipment, materials, and personnel required to produce Tier 1 automotive products. As well as ensuring outgoing quality, safety, and compliance with customer, state, and federal regulations. Direct team of planning, purchasing, and shipping/ receiving personnel to stated strategy, goals, and objectives set forth by the organization. Ensure team is engaged and collaborating across all responsibilities. Including production planning, inventory control, purchasing, receiving, warehousing, and product shipping. Develops and implements policies and procedures, formulating manufacturing operations strategies, building and mentoring manufacturing employees, and driving business results. This includes ensuring quality equipment, materials and production standards, overseeing and maintaining manufacturing budgets and staffing to manufacture quality products that meet customer expectations in the most cost-effective manner. Partners with the executive team in developing business strategy and operating plans. Including leading the creation and implementation of tactical plans to achieve Strategy. Extending to production team leaders and team members through communications tactics, goal alignment, and performance management. Partners with key stakeholders to ensure Continuous Improvement and provide visible support and leadership for Lean initiatives. Drive continuous improvement projects such as lean, 5S, and visualization throughout the Warn Auto operations organization. Review and develop a strategic supply base in collaboration with quality, engineering functions, and the Dover Asia Pacific Office. Drive customer requirements and automotive standards to all suppliers with a focus on clarity and understanding. Including negotiation, review, and management of contracts for all procured goods, services, and capital equipment globally. Develop plans and lead critical supplier negotiations to ensure competitive pricing and terms aligned to strategic goals, automotive requirements, and customer expectations. Including assignment of resources (Dover Sourcing, VSG, APO, 3rd party, and Warn Auto Team) and clear guidance to ensure comprehensive negotiation targets are met across the entire supply base. Develop strategic direction, objectives, tactics, and supporting budgets, justification, and resource plans to ensure corporate growth and financial objectives are met. Includes collaboration with Warn Auto leadership team, VSG Leadership team, and Dover Corporate functions. Partner with sales, marketing, production, finance, and operations to align forecasts, production plans, and business priorities. CANDIDATE PROFILE A bachelor's degree in an applicable field from an accredited college or university is required. MBA is strongly preferred. Minimum ten years of operations and supply chain leadership experience in a manufacturing environment. High-volume critical operations such as aerospace and automotive are preferred. Rapid growth and transformation experience preferred. Effective at communicating, verbally and in writing, with all levels of stakeholders and coworkers Highly ethical, self-motivated individual with ability to work independently and/or with limited direction, as well as cooperatively in a team environment, while consistently demonstrating collaborative, respectful and productive work habits. Interested in Learning More? 180one has been retained by Warn Automotive to manage this search. If interested in learning more about the opportunity, please contact Nicole Brady at 503-699-0184 or via email at nicole@180one.com .
By Effie Zimmerman August 3, 2026
General Manager, Northern California & Nevada Region ABOUT THE COMPANY With roots dating back to 1938, The Papé Group is the West’s leading supplier of capital equipment solutions. Today, Papé operates across nine states with over 4,000 team members, proudly representing premier brands including John Deere, Kenworth, Hyster, Ditch Witch, and more. What sets Papé apart is its commitment to long-term relationships, both with customers and employees. As a fourth-generation, family-led business, Papé believes in the value of a handshake, the importance of service, and the impact of leadership that stays close to the work. Papé Kenworth is one of the largest Kenworth truck dealers in the Western United States, providing sales, leasing, rental, parts, and service for medium and heavy-duty trucks. Founded in 2007 as part of Papé Group, the division supports commercial fleets and owner-operators with a commitment to maximizing uptime through exceptional customer service, expert technicians, and a network of locations across the West. ABOUT THE POSITION Reporting to the President of the Papé Kenworth business, the General Manager (GM) will be responsible for driving performance, growth, and operational excellence across the Papé Kenworth & Papé Truck Leasing branches in Northern, CA & Nevada. This includes branches in San Leandro, CA, Morgan Hill, CA, Sacramento, CA, and Sparks, NV. This role demands a strategic mindset, operational oversight, and a strong leadership presence to guide branch teams in delivering outstanding service, sales, and profitability. Essential Duties and Responsibilities Lead and manage the operations of multiple branches, aligning each with company objectives and performance standards. Develop and implement regional sales strategies, forecast performance, and set measurable business goals. Oversee branch budgets, control operating costs, and ensure long-term profitability of the region. Monitor market share trends, competitor activity, and local market dynamics to maintain a competitive edge. Drive customer satisfaction by ensuring exceptional service and support across all departments. Champion a high-performance culture focused on results, collaboration, and continuous improvement. Lead, manage, develop, train, and build leadership and branch teams. Regularly visit branches in the region to ensure operational excellence and to provide leadership and management to managers and team members. All of your efforts are geared towards providing exceptional service to our customers and being the leading Class 8 on-highway, vocational, and Class 6-7 medium-duty truck dealer in the area. If you are a great leader, results-driven, and are looking to make a difference, consider joining Papé today. CANDIDATE PROFILE The ideal candidate brings a proven track record of successful management experience in capital goods or dealership environments. Key strengths include: Strong background in sales, marketing, budgeting, and personnel leadership. Demonstrated experience in developing teams, setting performance goals, and achieving sales targets. Must reside within, or be willing to relocate, to the assigned regional area. Experience developing and executing regional sales strategies that consistently exceed revenue and profitability targets. Experience leading cross-functional teams with preference for leading sales, service, parts, and leasing. Preferred Bachelor’s degree is preferred, or equivalent combination of education and progressively responsible industry experience. 10+ years of progressive leadership experience in heavy equipment, construction equipment, agricultural equipment, industrial machinery, or other related capital equipment industry. Minimum of 5 years in leadership roles. Interested in Learning More? 180one is an executive search firm and is assisting Papé Group in this search. If interested in learning more about the opportunity, please contact Lisa Heffernan / 971.256.3076/ lisa@180one.com .
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