Corporate directors are entering 2026 with heightened attention on strategic execution, workforce capabilities and technology transformation as economic uncertainty persists, according to a new survey of more than 24,000 board members.
The National Association of Corporate Directors found that while economic volatility remains the top concern for directors — with more than 30 per cent expecting a recession in 2026 — a majority remain confident in their companies’ growth prospects. The findings reflect a boardroom environment increasingly centered on long-term value creation and leadership readiness.
“Directors recognize that succeeding in this environment requires clarity of purpose and disciplined follow-through,” said Peter Gleason, president and CEO of NACD. “The successful convergence of talent and technology will determine whether companies can innovate, adapt and execute their strategic commitments.”
Strategy execution takes priority
More than 60 per cent of directors identified strategy execution as their top oversight improvement area, according to the 2026 Governance Outlook Report. A similar proportion of boards are increasing strategy discussions during meetings, while more than 40 per cent are boosting engagement between meetings.
Directors also reported concerns about organizational agility and resource alignment as they work to ensure strategic plans translate into measurable outcomes.
CEO succession and workforce skills emerge as critical gaps
CEO succession planning ranked as the most important board practice needing improvement in 2026. Directors identified workforce adaptability, organizational agility and skilled employee shortages as the top barriers to strategy execution.
Only one-third of directors expressed strong confidence in their board’s collective skill set, and about 14 per cent raised concerns that their boards lack the capabilities needed for the year ahead.
Technology investment outpaces measurable results
Seventy-six per cent of directors said AI will factor into their 2026 growth strategy, but most organizations reported only slight or moderate success in realizing operational or financial benefits from these investments.
Directors emphasized the need for clearer performance metrics, better alignment between workforce skills and technology goals, and more disciplined evaluation of technology initiatives. The survey highlighted continued investment in AI, cybersecurity and digital transformation as key priorities.
The annual NACD Governance Outlook Report provides research and analysis to help boards navigate risk and opportunity. The organization represents more than 24,000 members across more than 20 chapters.
