These CEOs Just Won Big: What Their Success Means for EU Startups

Jan de Vries · 2026-10-14

Every year, EU Business News shines a spotlight on the CEOs who are reshaping Europe's corporate landscape. The third installment of the European CEO of the Year Awards is no exception. It honors leaders from tax advisory to water management, and their stories offer real lessons for anyone building a startup in the EU. ### The Winners Raising the Bar This year's awards cover a wide range of industries. You've got CEOs in tax and financial advisory, health screening and molecular diagnostics, corporate event management, destination management, and more. Each winner has shown exceptional performance over the past 12 months, and their achievements set a new standard for excellence across Europe. But what does it take to stand out? According to Awards Coordinator Melissa Bramall, it's about impact. "We are proud to have worked with such impactful CEOs who are devoted to improving their industries," she said. "I'm sure they will continue to help their teams, clients, customers, and the wider communities with such intelligent solutions and support." That's a high bar, but these leaders are clearing it. ### Cover Feature: Asle Johnsen's Sustainable Water Mission This year's cover star is Asle Johnsen, CEO of Aiwell Water and Aiwell Holding AS. He took home the Best Sustainable Water Management Solutions CEO 2026 (Nordics) award. Asle's specialty? Sustainable water management that benefits not just his partners but the environment we all share. His leadership shows how a company can grow while staying true to its values. For EU startups, it's a reminder that sustainability isn't just a buzzword—it's a competitive advantage. ### What This Means for EU Startups If you're building a startup in Europe, these awards aren't just a pat on the back for the winners. They're a signal of what investors and customers value. Here's what you can take away: - **Impact matters.** Whether you're in fintech or water tech, showing measurable impact on communities and the environment can set you apart. - **Leadership is key.** A CEO who inspires their team and stays committed to their vision is more likely to succeed. - **Validation helps.** Awards like these can boost credibility, attract talent, and open doors to new partnerships. And with the EU Inc proposal on the horizon, which aims to simplify company incorporation across Europe, the timing couldn't be better. Imagine a future where startups can scale seamlessly across borders, and awards like these become even more accessible to early-stage companies. The EU Inc proposal could be a game-changer for European startups, making it easier to incorporate and operate across member states. > "We are proud to have worked with such impactful CEOs who are devoted to improving their industries, and I'm sure they will continue to help their teams, clients, customers, and the wider communities with such intelligent solutions and support." – Melissa Bramall, Awards Coordinator So, what's the bottom line? The European CEO of the Year Awards highlight the best of the best, but they also offer a roadmap for success. By focusing on impact, leadership, and sustainability, EU startups can position themselves for recognition and growth. And who knows? Maybe next year, it'll be your name on that list. For more details on the awards and to see the full list of winners, visit the EU Business News website (link nofollow).