Where Can South African Ceos Find Growth Amid Geopolitical, Trade, Technology And Workforce Changes?

2024 brought with it heightened geopolitical tensions, rapid technological advancements and supply chain issues, creating challenges and opportunities for South African CEOs. In this article, Paul Calvey, Oliver Wyman Partner and Head of South Africa , explores the strategies business leaders can use to navigate this complex landscape to achieve sustainable growth in 2025.

Solving pressing business problems while laying the foundation for long-term sustainability has always been the hallmark of successful CEOs and boards. But rising geopolitical tensions, rapid technological advancesand evolving consumer demands add more complexity for todays business leaders.

CEOs face heady challenges, ranging from balancing growth and efficiency objectives, revamping supply chains to managing global risks, and modernising workforce strategies, as a recent report from the Oliver Wyman Forum noted . In the report, which surveyed more than 1,000 CEOs of New York Stock Exchange NYSE-listed companies, many of which have interests in the African continent, 55 of CEOs cited organic investment in new revenue streams as a top priority, and an equal percentage emphasised capital efficiency and cash flow management. The report reveals that today's business environment is characterised by a contrasting mix of promise and uncertainty, noting, 'Today's CEOs dont have the wind at their back theyre travelling directly into it.' Consequently, CEOs are prioritising both growth and efficiency.

These economic forces are not unique to NYSE-listed companies. They impact businesses worldwide. Companies that want to come out on top, including those operating in South Africa, need to implement a range of strategies to adapt and focus on long-term growth potential.