ABSTRACT

The selection of executive talent is arguably the most important decision an organization faces. In this chapter, we review research and best practices on executive selection and succession. We first identify the features that make executive selection and succession distinct from other types of managerial positions. We then consider the process of executive selection and succession. Based on these foundations, we propose a dynamic capabilities approach to building agile organizations through effective executive selection and succession. The chapter concludes with directions for future research and actionable practical implications. A noteworthy feature of the chapter is presentation of data and insights developed through our direct involvement in building and assessing dynamic capabilities of firms related to executive selection and succession.