Russell Reynolds Associates

“11% of companies across leading global public indices appointed a new CFO in the first half of 2026, up from 10% a year earlier—the highest H1 appointment rate in the index's eight‑year history.”

“That’s 192 appointments.”

“Among S&P 500 companies, the rate reached 13%, versus an eight‑year H1 average of 10%.”

“First‑time CFOs accounted for 64% of global appointments, up from 60% a year earlier.”

“technology recorded the highest share of experienced hires among tracked industries, at 56%.”