In the consumer goods, FMCG, and retail sectors, the path forward is filled with immense opportunities and substantial challenges.
MU’s latest Executive Barometer reveals a landscape marked by optimism, with executives identifying potential in product innovation, portfolio diversification, and technological advancement. Despite this optimism, rising costs, geopolitical uncertainties, and a highly competitive market underscore the need for capable, strategic leadership.
For organisations to turn these challenges into growth opportunities, leadership skills in vision, strategic thinking, and agility are essential. Well-prepared leaders should not only manage today’s obstacles but also drive sustained, long-term success.
The consumer goods and retail sectors are currently facing economic pressures like inflation, rising costs, and geopolitical uncertainties that threaten stability. Additionally, a shortage of skilled workers and heightened competition require leaders who can inspire, adapt, and lead through change. Exceptional leadership is the key to overcoming these multifaceted challenges.
Robust leadership competencies are essential. Skills like communication, vision, and agility enable leaders not only to guide their organisations effectively but also to proactively address potential challenges and seize opportunities.
However, recent insights reveal persistent gaps, particularly in vision and strategic thinking, leaving many leaders moderately prepared for the demands of tomorrow.
At MU, we work with tailored development solutions to ensure leaders are equipped to maximise their teams’ potential and steer organisations forward.
With our scientific methodology, we empower leaders with the skills needed to create strategic impact, and turning vision into actionable plans. Our high-quality development focuses on bridging these critical gaps to foster organisational resilience and agility in an evolving market.
To remain competitive, companies are investing in key areas that build robust leadership. The MU Executive Barometer highlights several priority initiatives:
MU’s bespoke leadership solutions integrate these initiatives, combining scientific rigor with practical insights. This ensures organisations develop leaders equipped to meet both current and future demands.
In a competitive world, adaptability and strategic foresight are fundamental to maintaining an edge.
Investing in focused leadership development helps companies retain top talent and foster a culture of agility and alignment. We encourage organisations to take decisive steps in leadership development, ensuring their leaders are prepared for today’s challenges and are visionary stewards of future growth.
This article is based on the findings of the MU Executive Barometer 2024 conducted by the MU Consumer & Retail Practice together with the independent research institute IPSOS. If you are interested in the survey or for questions regarding the MU Consumer & Retail Practice’s work, please reach out to the core team:
Florian Schmitz
MU Germany
florian.schmitz@mercuriurval.com
Brigitta Berger
MU Austria
brigitta.berger@mercuriurval.com
Matt Hill
MU Singapore
matt.hill@mercuriurval.com
Giuseppe Cozzo
MU Italy
giuseppe.cozzo@mercuriurval.com
Daniel Begg
MU UK
daniel.begg@mercuriurval.com
Anja Behrens
MU Germany
anja.behrens@mercuriurval.com
Pekka Tarkka
MU Japan
pekka.tarkka@mercuriurval.com