These CEOs Just Won Big—What It Means for EU Startups

Jan de Vries · 2026-10-14

The European CEO of the Year Awards 2026 have just been announced, and the winners are a fascinating mix of leaders from tax advisory to water management. If you're building a startup in Europe, these awards offer more than just a pat on the back—they reveal what it takes to scale successfully in today's competitive landscape. ### The Winners' Circle EU Business News recently unveiled the third installment of its European CEO of the Year Awards, celebrating executives who are raising the bar across the continent. The 2026 cohort includes CEOs from tax and financial advisory, health screening, corporate event management, and destination management. But the cover star is Asle Johnsen of Aiwell Water and Aiwell Holding AS, who took home Best Sustainable Water Management Solutions CEO 2026 (Nordics). Johnsen's work in sustainable water management isn't just about business—it's about creating solutions that benefit entire communities and the environment. > "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 ### What Makes These CEOs Stand Out? So, what can you learn from these award winners? Here are a few key takeaways: - **Purpose-driven leadership:** The winners aren't just chasing profits; they're solving real problems. Johnsen's focus on sustainable water management shows how a clear mission can drive both impact and success. - **Resilience and adaptability:** The awards evaluate performance over the past 12 months, a period that's been anything but predictable. These CEOs have navigated challenges and come out stronger. - **Team empowerment:** It's not just about the CEO—it's about the teams they build. The awards recognize leaders who foster collaboration and innovation. ### Why This Matters for EU Startups If you're an entrepreneur in the US looking to expand into Europe or simply keeping an eye on global trends, these awards offer a glimpse into what European investors and customers value. The EU startup ecosystem is vibrant and diverse, but it's also demanding. Awards like this highlight the importance of building a strong company culture, staying true to your values, and delivering tangible results. Moreover, the EU Inc proposal—a proposed legal framework for startups—could soon make it easier for founders to incorporate and scale across borders. While not directly related to the awards, it's part of the same conversation: how Europe is working to become a more attractive place for innovation. The winners here are proof that with the right approach, European companies can compete on a global stage. ### The Bottom Line Whether you're inspired by Johnsen's environmental impact or the success stories of other CEOs, the European CEO of the Year Awards remind us that great leadership is about more than just numbers. It's about vision, execution, and leaving a positive mark. And for startups, that's a lesson worth remembering. So, next time you're refining your pitch or planning your next move, think about what these award-winning CEOs would do. Maybe it's time to double down on your mission, invest in your team, or simply celebrate your wins—no matter how small.