We've carried out extensive research into the career paths of the 108 FTSE 100 CEOs (excluding 3 investment trusts and including companies with multiple CEOs) which has shown that you’re most likely to become a FTSE 100 CEO if you work your way up the management ladder of a company.
Some of the most successful businesses don’t recruit leaders, they grow their own.
Business leaders have two options: hire talent or develop it. We’ve increasingly seen people valuing the latter, and the effectiveness of this is clear from the research.
Who's climbed the ladder to success?
A great example of someone who stayed in the same company and made their way to the top is former Diageo CEO Paul Walsh - who recently spoke at Freshminds' inaugural 'Strat Fest' event. Paul (now Chairman of Compass Group) started his career at property and brewing conglomerate Grand Metropolitan and helped it grow into 'Diageo' - it's latest carnation as an extremely successful drinks business.
Stuart Rose is another of these 'lifers', who first joined Marks & Spencer in 1972 as a management management trainee and left as CEO. Although M&S heavily dominates his CV, Rose had brief interludes as the CEO of Burton Group, Argos and Arcadia Group. This makes him a great example of someone who has stayed in one industry, allowing him to develop the in-depth knowledge and skills to get to the top.
Nurture your 'future lifers'
This high number of CEOs who have risen through the ranks to lead a business shows the importance of hiring top junior talent and nurturing progression.
Looking for analytical Minds to become the future leaders of your business?
Freshminds attracts the top talent with a consulting skill set in Europe. We manage two pools of Minds, analytical graduates or those in their early career with a consulting skill set and proven ex-strategy and management consultants. Looking for some analytical firepower for your business? Give us a call on 020 7692 4300 or drop us an email.
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