These CEOs Just Won Europe's Biggest Award—Here's What They Did

Jan de Vries · 2026-10-14

Every year, EU Business News shines a spotlight on the chief executives who are pushing their industries forward. The third installment of the European CEO of the Year Awards is no exception. It celebrates leaders who are not just running companies but are redefining what success looks like in Europe's vibrant corporate landscape. This year's awards supplement goes beyond the usual pat on the back. It digs into what makes a CEO and their team truly successful—not just today, but for the years ahead. From tax advisory to molecular diagnostics, the 2026 winners are raising the bar across the board. ### The Cover Star: Asle Johnsen of Aiwell Water This year's cover feature is Asle Johnsen, CEO of Aiwell Water and Aiwell Holding AS. He took home the award for Best Sustainable Water Management Solutions CEO 2026 (Nordics). Asle's specialty? Sustainable water management that doesn't just benefit his direct partners but also the environment we all share. Under his leadership, Aiwell is making waves—figuratively and literally. But what does it take to win an award like this? According to EU Business News, it's about more than just a good year. The magazine prides itself on a rigorous evaluation process, looking at performance over the past 12 months. Only the most deserving parties walk away with an award. ### A Word from the Awards Coordinator Melissa Bramall, Awards Coordinator, had this to say about the 2026 winners: > "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. Congratulations again." That sentiment captures the spirit of the awards: it's not just about individual success but about the ripple effect that great leadership has on everyone involved. ### Why This Matters for European Startups For those in the startup world, especially in the EU Inc space, these awards offer more than just inspiration. They show what's possible when you combine vision with execution. The winners come from diverse fields—tax and financial advisory, health screening, corporate event management, destination management, and more. Each one has found a way to innovate and lead. If you're building a startup, take note: success isn't just about a great product. It's about building a team that can execute, adapting to challenges, and making a positive impact on the world around you. The CEOs honored here have done exactly that. ### How to Learn More The full winners supplement is available on the EU Business News website. It offers insights into the working practices of the "best of the best"—a valuable resource for anyone looking to elevate their own leadership game. Whether you're a seasoned CEO or a founder just starting out, there's something to learn from these success stories. So, what's the takeaway? Great leadership is about more than just hitting targets. It's about inspiring your team, serving your customers, and leaving a positive mark on the world. The 2026 European CEO of the Year Awards winners embody that philosophy, and they're setting a high bar for the rest of us.