Overview

As companies enter 2026, success will depend not only on strategy, but on organisational readiness. This report examines how European organisations are preparing their people, leadership, and internal operating priorities for the year ahead, based on survey responses from senior decision-makers across the Aurora Live Network.

The findings explore how companies are approaching workforce planning, with most aiming for stability rather than aggressive growth. It also highlights the HR and talent priorities shaping 2026, including leadership development, restructuring, technical upskilling, and stronger performance management. Beyond workforce strategy, the report examines which leadership approaches companies intend to emphasise, with strong momentum toward cross-functional collaboration, data-informed leadership, and employee empowerment.

Finally, the report links organisational readiness to external volatility. With political, economic, and regulatory pressures shaping decisions across Europe, many companies are building resilience through scenario planning, tighter risk oversight, and adjustments to investment timing and supply chain strategy.

Together, these insights provide a benchmark for leaders assessing whether their organisation is equipped to execute in 2026, not just plan for it.