Only 39% of Indian CXOs Feel Their Industry is Ready for Global Shocks: Great Lakes Gurgaon Survey

GURUGRAM / September 10, 2025 – A survey of top CXOs and industry leaders conducted during Great Lakes Institute of Management’s annual management conclave, Sapience 2025, revealed that while 76% of respondents rated India’s broader business ecosystem as “highly resilient” to global shocks, only 39% felt their industry was “well-equipped” to handle challenges such as pandemics, geopolitical tensions, supply chain disruptions, and economic slowdowns. Skills shortages and infrastructure gaps were identified as recurring barriers to improving readiness.

Respondents identified agile workforce planning, digital transformation, and diversified supply chains as the most effective strategies for ensuring local business continuity in turbulent times.

The findings were captured at Sapience 2025 which brought together 25+ CXOs, speakers, and domain experts from leading organisations including Thomas Cook, Red Bull, BNY Mellon, Publicis Media, Biocon Biologics, Jakson Group, Accenture, and Warner Bros. Discovery. A keynote address by Mr. Romil Pant, Business Head & EVP at Thomas Cook, introduced the A.G.I.L.E. leadership model, encouraging leaders to anticipate trends, generate strategic options, implement rapidly, learn from every action, and evolve with changing contexts.

Human capital was repeatedly described as the ultimate multiplier of resilience. The need for localized supply chains, logistics innovation, and targeted infrastructure upgrades was another recurring priority. Leaders agreed these elements are no longer optional but essential for maintaining business continuity in an increasingly unpredictable global environment. Marketing’s role, too, is undergoing a transformation. No longer confined to brand-building, it is now seen as a driver of business adaptability and growth shaping how companies pivot, communicate, and capture opportunities in volatile markets.

Dr. Jones Mathew, Principal and Head of Great Lakes Gurgaon, said:
“Sapience has always provided a platform for industry leaders and students to exchange ideas and experiences. This year, as businesses navigate disruptions from technology, inflation, geopolitics, and climate change, the discussions underscored the importance of agility, localized response, and keeping people and purpose at the center of decision-making.”