As we move toward 2026, the McKinsey Global Survey on executive transitions offers powerful lessons for fashion and luxury leaders. Success today is less about having all the answers and more about creating clarity, alignment, and trust in an increasingly complex landscape.

Define What Not to Do

In a creative industry where possibilities are endless, great leaders make strategic restraint a priority. By clearly identifying what not to pursue, such as overproduction, brand dilution, or unsustainable trend cycles, executives strengthen focus and credibility.

Immerse in the Culture

Fashion thrives on identity and nuance. Successful transitions begin with deep listening, understanding the brand’s DNA, consumer mindset, and internal culture before reshaping direction. This builds empathy, authenticity, and alignment from the inside out.

Build the Right Inner Circle

New leaders who invest early in their core team outperform others. In fashion, this means engaging directly with design, product development, merchandising, digital, and communications, creating a collective rhythm that balances creativity and commerciality.

Focus on What You Can Influence

With growth projections flattening and consumer priorities shifting toward value and sustainability, the most effective leaders channel energy into what’s within reach: process optimisation, talent development, nearshoring, digital transformation, and agile decision-making.

Lead with Clarity and Consistency

In a world of constant change, leadership stability is magnetic. The best transitions blend curiosity with conviction, setting a clear strategic direction while allowing space for innovation and cross-functional collaboration.

In summary:

For fashion executives in 2026, the transition to leadership success is not about immediate reinvention; it is about disciplined immersion, cultural intelligence, and shaping a clear, cohesive path forward that inspires both teams and consumers.