2026 Leadership & Hiring Trends Report
Disciplined growth, smarter talent bets, and leadership that drives real results
Following a year of economic complexity and measured decision-making, leadership teams are entering 2026 with greater steadiness and resolve.
Noto Group surveyed senior leaders across consumer and lifestyle brands from $10M to over $1B in revenue to capture how business imperatives and leadership expectations are aligning in 2026.
Emerging themes in 2026:
1. From Margin Pressure to Momentum
Profitability is still the top priority, but brand strength and innovation are gaining ground. Leaders aren’t choosing between discipline and growth—they’re delivering both.
2. Fewer Hires. Higher Stakes.
Organizations are hiring more intentionally, yet securing top talent is slightly harder. Compensation pressures, relocation constraints, and sharper role definitions are raising the bar for every leadership hire.
3. The Leadership Gap No One Can Ignore
Two-thirds say executives need coaching, but few receive it—making leadership development a major untapped advantage this year.
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About Noto Group
Noto Group partners with leading consumer brands in athletic, outdoor, fashion, food & beverage, and healthy living to help them find and develop exceptional leaders during periods of growth and change. We offer executive search, leadership consulting, and board recruitment, serving clients across North America and Europe. Our proprietary Sure Hire process brings rigor and consistency to every search, so clients can hire with confidence and build leadership teams that deliver. As a certified B Corporation since 2013 and a 1% for the Planet member, Noto Group brings a comprehensive, values-driven approach to every engagement.