2012 CEO survey – US findings

Heading into 2012, US CEOs show measured optimism as they face wide disparities in their operations around the world. To be sure, slow recovery at home and crisis in Europe are immediate concerns. But long-term fundamentals point to robust growth in Asia, Africa, and Latin America -- and CEO strategies are clearly targeting this opportunity.

Success in these markets involves understanding customer segmentation, complying with inconsistent standards and regulations, nurturing diverse talent pools, and accessing innovation from previously untapped sources.

Read the US Executive Summary of PwC's 15th Annual Global CEO Survey to learn more about American business leaders' outlook and strategies for the US and the global economy.

Are US businesses in the right places at the right time?

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Brian Duperreault
President and CEO,
Marsh & McLennan
Companies Inc.

 

Customer demand is driving changes to strategy

 

77%

of US CEOs are revising strategies
in response to customer demand

Responding to local sources of growth

US CEOs targeting customers in high-growth markets.
 
China
 
India
 
Brazil

David Cote
Chairman and CEO, Honeywell

"We’re going to participate in that growth and continue to support it. So the biggest thing that needs to be done for Honeywell is to identify our Chinese competitors. We know who our competitors are in the developed world, but when you look at emerging regions with high growth, that’s where you next competitor is likely to emerge. The only way we’ll be able to compete is if we’re there and doing everything locally. And that’s where our big push has been."

Prepared for risk in pursuit of opportunities

2011
 
2012
 

US CEOs making changes to corporate
strategies in response to risk attitudes
and tolerance

Dominic J. Frederico
President and CEO,
Assured Guaranty Ltd.

 

Stepping up cross-border deals and alliances

Past 12 months   Next 12 months
45% US CEOs pursuing strategic alliance/Joint venture 58%
25% US CEOs pursuing cross-border M&A 39%

Challenged by new competitors

 

Douglas R.
Oberhelman
Chairman and CEO,
Caterpillar Inc.

 

Business to government: develop workforce

 

60%

of US CEOs say creating and fostering a skilled
workforce should be a government priority today

US CEOs are increasing their own commitment to talent

 

75%

To ensure a future supply of employees

 

56%

To improve formal education systems

 

50%

To enhance adult/vocational training programs

Michael Thaman
Chairman of the Board
and CEO, Owens Corning

 
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Download key US findings


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