Global Leadership Forecast
DDI’s Global Leadership Forecast (GLF) is the largest leadership study of its kind, offering a true forecast into what’s next for leadership.
DDI first began this stream of research more than 23 years ago to track the challenges and trends of leadership. It has since grown into the largest leadership study of its kind. More than 13,000 global leaders and 1,500 organizations contributed to the most recent GLF.
This research contains deep data and findings about leadership bench strength, best practices for leadership development, retention, diversity, and so much more. Get dozens of practical, evidence-based recommendations for critical business issues, and learn about changes in the caliber of global leadership.
2025
Global Leadership Forecast 2025
In our 2025 GLF research, we uncovered a deepening crisis of trust and burnout among leaders. Frontline leaders, in particular, are struggling to find meaning in their work as they navigate the pressures of constant change, evolving technology like AI, and rising expectations. Many are questioning whether leadership is worth the cost. This year’s report is packed with actionable insights to help you rebuild trust, reignite purpose, and equip your leaders to thrive in the face of uncertainty.
The HR Insights Report 2025 reveals how leading HR teams are using data-driven strategies to close succession gaps, reduce burnout, and lead AI transformation. Discover urgent talent challenges and what sets future-focused HR apart.
HR Insights Report 2025
5 min
The Europe Leadership Report 2025 highlights an urgent need to rebuild trust, close skill gaps, and strengthen leadership pipelines to address rising stress, AI uncertainty, and future workforce demands.
Europe Leadership Report 2025
5 min
2023
Global Leadership Forecast 2023
In our 2023 GLF research, we saw clear signs of a restless pipeline of leaders who are seeking more from their work. After leading through several years of crisis, leaders are exhausted by constant change. They’re wondering if there are better places to build a career that complements the life they want—and allows them to grow and make a bigger impact. This year’s report is full of actionable insights to help you invest in the right development opportunities to deliver the growth your leaders crave and will prepare your company for the uncertain challenges ahead.
This report delivers insight into the experiences and perceptions of groups who are underrepresented in leadership, and the impact of organizational diversity, equity, and inclusion practices.
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Report 2023
5 min
This report examines how CEOs view their leadership challenges and those of their organization, and the effect of specific HR practices on those business challenges.
CEO Leadership Report 2023
5 min
2021
Global Leadership Forecast 2021
When we launched our GLF 2021 survey in February of 2020, we had no idea what our world would face. We were able to capture responses from before and during a global pandemic as well as how leaders adjusted to a new normal. What came through clearly in this study is that companies are gearing up for an era of constant crisis. Learn how working during a crisis has challenged leaders most and key trends and best talent practices to act on today.
How has COVID changed the world of leadership development? Explore our infographic on the trends that will shape your leadership development efforts in 2021.
2021 Leadership Trends Infographic
3 min
A special diversity and inclusion report from the Global Leadership Forecast 2021 series with critical data on gender and minority leadership.
Diversity & Inclusion Report 2020
10 min
Leadership Transitions Report 2021
10 min
A special CEO leadership report from the Global Leadership Forecast 2021 series to help CEOs, CHROs, and boards of directors navigate one of the most challenging talent markets in history.
CEO Leadership Report 2021
10 min
A special HR leadership insights report from the Global Leadership Forecast 2021 series that examines how trends have shaped HR’s current and future role in the market.
HR Leadership Insights Report
10 min
2018
Global Leadership Forecast 2018
GLF 2018 is a three-way collaboration with DDI, The Conference Board, and EY. The report includes 25 findings, ranging from digital transformation to gender and generational diversity to the roles of purpose and culture in building an effective, sustainable leadership strategy for a digital age.
2014-15
Global Leadership Forecast 2015
GLF 2015 is a joint report between DDI and The Conference Board. With 25 findings, the report helps you understand how ready-now leaders drive financial success. You’ll also learn how talent programs impact leader readiness and how to mitigate risks to program success.
