Who Took Home the 2026 European CEO of the Year Awards?

Jan de Vries · 2026-10-14

The European CEO of the Year Awards have become a benchmark for leadership excellence across the continent. Now in its third year, the 2026 edition, presented by EU Business News, shines a spotlight on leaders who are not just running companies but reshaping industries. From sustainable water management to molecular diagnostics, this year's winners show what it takes to thrive in a complex business landscape. ### A Celebration of Visionary Leadership EU Business News, a publication dedicated to covering Europe's dynamic business environment, has announced its 2026 European CEO of the Year Awards. The awards recognize CEOs who have demonstrated exceptional leadership, innovation, and impact over the past year. This year's supplement goes beyond the accolades, diving into the strategies and philosophies that drive these leaders and their teams. The winners span a diverse range of sectors: - Tax and financial advisory - Health screening and molecular diagnostics - Corporate event management - Destination management - Sustainable water management Each of these leaders has raised the bar in their respective fields, setting new standards for excellence. ### Cover Feature: Asle Johnsen of Aiwell Water The cover story features Asle Johnsen, CEO of Aiwell Water and Aiwell Holding AS, who received the Best Sustainable Water Management Solutions CEO 2026 (Nordics) award. Johnsen's work in sustainable water management has not only benefited his company's partners but also the broader environment. Under his leadership, Aiwell has developed solutions that address pressing water challenges while promoting sustainability. Johnsen's recognition underscores the growing importance of environmental stewardship in business. His approach demonstrates how companies can achieve success while making a positive impact on the world. ### A Word from the Awards Coordinator Melissa Bramall, Awards Coordinator, shared her thoughts on this year's 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." The enthusiasm from Bramall reflects the rigorous selection process behind the awards. EU Business News prides itself on the validity of its awards, ensuring that each winner is truly deserving. The evaluation process considers a business or individual's performance over the past 12 months, focusing on measurable outcomes and industry impact. ### Why These Awards Matter For professionals in the startup and incorporation space, the European CEO of the Year Awards offer more than just recognition—they provide a roadmap for success. By studying the practices of these award-winning leaders, entrepreneurs and executives can gain insights into effective leadership, innovation, and sustainable growth. The awards also highlight the importance of adaptability and vision in today's fast-paced business environment. Whether it's navigating regulatory changes or embracing new technologies, the winners exemplify the qualities needed to lead in uncertain times. ### How to Learn More To explore the full list of winners and gain deeper insights into their working practices, visit the EU Business News website. The winners supplement offers detailed profiles and interviews, providing a valuable resource for anyone looking to elevate their leadership game. In a world where business challenges are constantly evolving, the European CEO of the Year Awards remind us that strong leadership can make all the difference. Congratulations to this year's winners—they are truly setting the standard for excellence in Europe and beyond.