By Joe Carroll, Head of Professional Development
Pope Francis observed, “We are not living in an era of change, but in a change of era.” This sentiment resonates deeply as we approach 2026—a year that marks not just a shift in leadership expectations, but a profound transformation in how leadership itself is defined.
Many experts argue that what we are living through is a Fourth Industrial Revolution—a convergence of artificial intelligence, biotechnology, quantum computing, and hyper-connectivity that is reshaping every aspect of work and society. Just as steam power and electrification redefined leadership in the 18th and 20th centuries, today’s leaders must adapt to a world where change is exponential, systems are interdependent, and the human dimension is more vital than ever.
Chartered Accountants Ireland, through its Strategy27 framework and professional development initiatives, is preparing members to meet this new era with clarity, courage, and compassion. Here are five defining challenges that upcoming leaders must be prepared to meet.
Navigating uncertainty in a volatile world
In this revolutionised era, uncertainty is constant. Leaders must develop the capacity to make decisions amid ambiguity, anticipate disruption, and pivot strategies with agility. The ability to lead with resilience and foresight is now a core competency.
Competing for talent and building future-ready teams
In Chartered Accountants Ireland’s recent member survey, 63% of respondents identified talent competition as their top organisational challenge. Leaders must foster inclusive, flexible, and purpose-driven environments that attract and retain talent. This includes mentoring, career development, and wellbeing strategies that reflect the values of a new generation.
Leading in a hybrid and AI-augmented workplace
Hybrid work and AI are now embedded in organisational culture. Leaders must balance technological efficiency with human connection—building trust, fostering collaboration, and ensuring ethical use of emerging tools. Emotional intelligence and digital fluency are no longer optional.
Responding to regulatory reform and governance demands
From auto-enrolment to EU-wide corporate structures, regulatory reform is accelerating. Leaders must stay ahead of compliance while actively shaping policy. Chartered Accountants Ireland continues to advocate for trusted leadership in governance, and emerging leaders must be equipped to engage with stakeholders and lead with integrity.
Maintaining strategic clarity amid digital disruption
Digital transformation is not a project—it’s a mindset. Leaders must guide their organisations through continuous innovation while maintaining clarity of purpose. In an era of misinformation and data complexity, strategic clarity and ethical leadership are more important than ever.
Final thoughts: Leadership in revolutionary times
The Industrial Revolution transformed economies and societies. Today, this Revolution is doing the same—but faster, deeper, and more globally. Leaders must not only adapt but evolve. They must be visionary, empathetic, and courageous.
Above all, they must be curious and willing to learn.
Curiosity fuels innovation, drives continuous learning, and opens leaders to new perspectives. In a world where the pace of change often outstrips experience, curiosity becomes the bridge between uncertainty and insight. It encourages leaders to ask better questions, explore emerging technologies, and remain open to feedback and growth.
Chartered Accountants Ireland is committed to supporting its members through this transformation—equipping them with the insights, skills, and networks to lead with confidence. The launch of the new Executive Leadership Programme, developed in partnership with Queen’s University Belfast, reflects this commitment. It is designed to empower leaders to thrive in this changed era, and to lead with trust, agility, and purpose. To find out more about this programme which will kick off in February 2026 see www…..
Spotlight: Executive Leadership Programme launch
Chartered Accountants Ireland, in collaboration with Queen’s University Belfast, has officially launched its new Executive Leadership Programme—a premium development experience designed to equip professionals with the tools, insights, and confidence to lead in today’s complex business environment.
The programme blends immersive in-person sessions in Dublin and Belfast with online learning, offering a dynamic mix of psychometric profiling, strategic communication, and AI accountability. Participants will explore three core themes: Leading Self, Leading Others, and Leading the Organisation, guided by expert faculty including Dr Louise O’Meara, Richard Ramsey, and Dr Vincent Charles.
More information on the Executive Leadership Programme can be found on our website.
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