The State of Our World and Why Women’s Leadership Matters

Rapid changes and disruptions have become the new norm, making the role of women in leadership more crucial than ever. Successfully navigating these complexities and seizing opportunities for growth requires strategic thinking and a deep understanding of evolving global dynamics. 

During the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation’s 2025 International Women’s Day Forum, Ana Kreacic, partner and chief knowledge officer of Oliver Wyman, and the chief operating officer of the Oliver Wyman Forum, the firm’s think tank, shared insights on the multifaceted challenges and opportunities facing women leaders today. The session highlighted the major revolutions reshaping our world: geopolitical shifts, economic nationalism, AI advancements, environmental impacts, and demographic transformations. 

Geopolitical and Economic Shifts 

Kreacic discussed the evolving geopolitical landscape and its significant implications for businesses and women's roles within them. "We used to be in a world where markets influence politics. We're now in a world where politics is influencing markets," she noted, emphasizing the increasing complexity of the global environment. Kreacic also highlighted how economic nationalism has led to governments playing a more significant role in markets, impacting trade policies and commerce. She stressed the importance of understanding these changes and adapting strategies accordingly. 

AI, Environmental Impacts, and Demographics 

Kreacic discussed how AI advancements are reshaping industries and driving productivity. She emphasized that AI is not just for innovators but is becoming essential for maintaining market superiority. "AI is the primary driver of competitive advantage," Kreacic stated, highlighting the need for businesses to integrate AI into their operations effectively. 

Kreacic also talked about how climate-related disasters remain a critical issue, with visible effects in cities worldwide. She highlighted the role women play in addressing these challenges through engagement in impact investing and considering environmental factors in purchasing decisions. "Women are more likely to engage with environmental issues than men, similar to how they are more likely to engage with philanthropy," Kreacic explained. 

Demographic changes were also addressed by Kreacic, presenting significant challenges with aging populations and shrinking workforces. She stressed the importance of understanding generational differences in leadership expectations and the need for more women leaders to drive economic growth. "We have to count on women as well as men to drive our future economic growth. There's no other way around this equation," Kreacic highlighted.

Leadership and Workforce Dynamics 

Kreacic also explored the evolving traits valued in leaders across generations, with strong communication, emotional intelligence, and adaptability being highly prioritized. She pointed out that women are often seen as exemplifying these traits more frequently, yet still face barriers to leadership positions. "There's a paradox. We're talking about lacking women's participation at work, lacking women in leadership, and yet for the top five [leadership] traits that different generations value, people perceive the majority of women as demonstrating them more often," Kreacic said. 

Kreacic urged the audience to take concrete actions to support women's leadership, including providing meaningful support for care work, creating flexible workspaces, and redefining what we expect from leaders. Highlighting the importance of sponsorship over mentorship, she explained “A mentor is great, but a sponsor means I’m using my political capital to elevate you.”