Germany Faces Shortage of Over 28,000 Leadership Roles Amid Declining Interest

Germany is experiencing a critical shortage of leadership personnel in its economy, with more than 28,000 vacancies reported last year—double the number from 2015. This alarming trend stems from a marked decline in employees’ willingness to assume leadership positions. A study by the Competence Center for Securing Skilled Labor (Kofa) surveyed over 3,100 workers without leadership roles and found that only 14% could imagine taking on such positions, while 43% rejected the idea outright.

Key reasons for this reluctance include fear of increased workload (77%), unwillingness to accept more responsibility (75%), and concerns about personal life impact (73%). Many feel the income increase that leadership offers does not justify these sacrifices, with 95% interested in leadership primarily for higher pay and 85% motivated by greater influence. Regina Flake, the study's author, noted that leadership roles have lost their traditional appeal due to diminished status and privileges.

To address this challenge, Flake recommends that companies introduce more flexibility into leadership jobs, especially to attract women and part-time workers. Additionally, easing transitions by offering mentoring and deputy leadership roles can help reduce fear of the "jump into cold water" many employees feel. The shortage poses significant risks to business operations and calls for urgent strategic adjustments to revive interest in leadership tenure.