New data suggests Gen X leaders are being leapfrogged in succession plans.
That worries us — not just because it’s our generation, but because Gen X often serves as the glue that holds organizations together.
They bring institutional memory, operational depth, and adaptive leadership. They’ve navigated recessions, tech revolutions, and cultural shifts. They’ve been quietly building capacity — mentoring emerging leaders, stabilizing teams, and adapting without chasing the spotlight.
When organizations skip over this group in succession planning, they risk losing the connective tissue that keeps people, strategy, and culture aligned. So what should leaders do about it?
- Audit your leadership pipeline — Is Gen X represented, and at the right levels
- Invest in their growth — Even seasoned leaders need opportunities to stretch and evolve.
- Leverage their influence — Give them visible roles in shaping and sponsoring future leaders.
At HAVEN, we help organizations strengthen every layer of leadership — ensuring no generation’s potential, or hard-earned wisdom, is overlooked.
If you’re rethinking your succession plans or wondering how to better leverage the leaders already in your ranks, let’s talk. We’re here to help as you keep igniting exceptional performance across your organization.
