CEOs of Major Companies Are Being Replaced at a Record Pace — Here’s the Reason Why

One CEO in nine was replaced last year, while CFO turnover hit a seven-year high.

By Jonathan Small | edited by Dan Bova | Feb 23, 2026
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Warning to executives: Don’t get too comfortable in your corner office. was replaced last year, the highest rate since the financial crisis, and hit a seven-year high, according to new data from Russell Reynolds Associates.

The replacements are younger and greener. More than 80% of the 168 incoming CEOs were first-timers with no prior experience running public companies. Two-thirds have never served on a corporate board. Some companies that brought in new CEOs this year include Walmart, Procter & Gamble, Disney, PayPal, and HP.

What’s driving the shift? AI disruption, unraveling trade practices, and an unsettled economy are forcing boards to rethink leadership. But there’s also burnout. Retirements accounted for 60% of CFO departures, with many veterans opting for board work or advisory roles over grueling schedules.

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Warning to executives: Don’t get too comfortable in your corner office. was replaced last year, the highest rate since the financial crisis, and hit a seven-year high, according to new data from Russell Reynolds Associates.

The replacements are younger and greener. More than 80% of the 168 incoming CEOs were first-timers with no prior experience running public companies. Two-thirds have never served on a corporate board. Some companies that brought in new CEOs this year include Walmart, Procter & Gamble, Disney, PayPal, and HP.

What’s driving the shift? AI disruption, unraveling trade practices, and an unsettled economy are forcing boards to rethink leadership. But there’s also burnout. Retirements accounted for 60% of CFO departures, with many veterans opting for board work or advisory roles over grueling schedules.

Sign up for the Âé¶¹Éç Daily newsletter to get the news and resources you need to know today to help you run your business better.

Jonathan Small • Founder, Strike Fire Productions

Âé¶¹Éç Staff
Jonathan Small is a bestselling author, journalist, producer, and podcast host. For 25 years, he... Read more
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