Global business leaders are optimistic about growth and focused on cybersecurity, AI, sustainability, brand image and international outlook

 The Business Decision Makers’ Mindset report launched by CNN International Commercial

A global report on what drives business decisions launched today by CNN International Commercial (CNNIC). Almost 2,000 company leaders across 14 different countries were surveyed by B2B International to reveal their motivations, fears and priorities which feature in The Business Decision Makers’ Mindset whitepaper.

With insight from C-suites, business owners, board members, executives and divisional heads, the comprehensive data set derived from leaders spanning a variety of sectors including Foreign Direct Investment, Logistics and Supply Chain, Business Technology Solutions and Energy, Environment, Social and Governance, to evaluate the nuances and triggers that inform their medium to long term strategies.

The research uncovered distinct trends, including:

• Optimism fuels growth – 81% senior business decision makers (BDMs) are confident in delivering revenue growth for the year ahead.
• Cybersecurity, AI and advanced technology are focal points of digital transformation strategies, with 81% citing cybersecurity a business objective and 66% citing it is as a top business concern.
• Sustainability is shifting from an echo to an action chamber – 61% BDMs have changed or plan to exit partnerships with suppliers due to poor ESG or unethical practices.
• Brand image, perception, reputation and trust are key in decision making with 8 in 10 preferring to work with partners whose values align with theirs.
• A global outlook is vital and 94% agree that international news is important for informing business decisions.

Jo Tenzer, Director of Audience Insight at CNNIC, who commissioned and produced the report, said, “Delving into the macro and micro influences on the decision-making process and the impetus that determine an organization’s roadmap has been fascinating. After navigating unprecedented challenges from technological shifts to managing growing expectations on sustainability, senior business decision makers are maintaining a positive mindset. Through this research we’ve certainly seen a blurring of where priorities sit. AI and emerging technology continue to be a focus and now cybersecurity – which could once have been considered a concern of the IT department but encompasses reputational damage and consumer trust – is a top business priority.”

To read the full whitepaper, download The Business Decision Makers’ Mindset here.

About CNN International Commercial

CNN International Commercial (CNNIC) is responsible for the business operations of CNN’s properties outside of the United States. All commercial activities for brands such as CNN International, CNN Arabic, CNN Style and CNN Business are aligned within the division. This encompasses advertising sales, sponsorship partnerships, commercial content development, content sales, brand licensing, distribution and out-of-home operations, business development and marketing for the world’s leading international news provider.

CNNIC is a recognised industry leader in international advertising sales and its use of award-winning commercial content, produced through its Create unit and driven by its advanced data usage and digital capabilities, has resulted in strong and enduring partnerships with many of the world’s most recognised brands.

Its Content Sales and Licensing unit has relationships with more than 1,000 affiliates ranging from licensing the CNN brand through to content supply contracts as well as offering consultancy services. For more information visit http://commercial.cnn.com