EY-Parthenon
CEO Survey
South Africa's CEOs are sharpening the core to fund growth
October 2026
EY-Parthenon CEO Survey
Confidence is translating into action
Strengthening the core to create room for growth
Extending capability through partnerships and investment
Actively reshaping the portfolio
Execution will determine how much value is realised
Productivity supports the growth agenda
In summary
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South African CEOs are moving decisively from intention to action. With 90% expecting revenue growth over the next 12 months, leaders are strengthening their core businesses, investing in new capabilities and actively reshaping portfolios to create new routes to growth.
Ninety percent of South African respondents expect revenue growth during the next 12 months, up from the 60% that reported growth over the previous 12 months.
CEOs are pursuing growth on multiple fronts: improving the economics of the core business, using partnerships and minority investments to extend capabilities, and actively managing portfolios.
South African transaction intentions are particularly strong, with 63% expecting divestment or separation activity and 60% planning joint ventures over the next 12 months.
Execution will be decisive. Legacy technology, outdated operating models and regulatory complexity could constrain how quickly strategic intent becomes measurable value.