AlixPartners report shows rising anxiety and disruption among CEOs

The AlixPartners 2026 Disruption Index, based on a survey of 3,200 CEOs and senior executives across 11 countries, reveals rising levels of anxiety and uncertainty among top leadership. Approximately 45% of CEOs expressed fear regarding job security, while 40% reported increased anxiety compared to the previous year.

Key drivers of this disruption include inflation, which was identified by half of the executives as a top business disruptor, and the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence. While AI is causing concerns regarding workforce reevaluation and potential layoffs, 80% of CEOs remain optimistic about its overall impact on their companies as they transition from experimentation to implementation.

There is a noted divide within executive ranks: 70% of CEOs report high levels of disruption, compared to only 39% of other C-suite members. Additionally, many CEOs expressed concern that their teams lack the necessary agility to respond to rapid changes and that their organizations are not adapting quickly enough.