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According to executive coaching firm Challenger, Gray & Christmas, 214 CEOs left their roles in April 2025—up from 177 in March 2025, and 126 in April 2024. Some are stepping down on their own terms; others are part of broader leadership shifts. But the message is clear: the bar for what it takes to lead is rising.

So what distinguishes a CEO candidate in today’s high-stakes environment?

Top executive search leaders, including DSG Global / AltoPartners USA CEO Aileen Alexander, shared some of the key attributes they seek in future CEOs with Fortune.

“We ask candidates about their vision for the organization’s future,” said Alexander. “It’s not just about strategy or operations—exceptional leaders connect all three: strategy, culture, and people.”