The number of chief executives with backgrounds in technology at the UKs biggest firms has trebled to one in ten over the last four years, according to Robert Halfs FTSE 100 CEO Tracker released today.
It shows that, in 2014, only three CEOs had a background in technology, but today that number has risen to 11, while those with finance expertise fell to 43% in 2016 - the lowest level in three years.
In addition, it was found that there are just eight CEOs today under the age of 50, less than a quarter of the 33 there were in 2010, with the average chief executive now 55 years old.
"With digital transformation, automation and GDPR offering challenges and opportunities, growth remains the number one priority for all businesses - small and large," Robert Half UK senior managing director, Phil Sheridan, said.
"As a result, all businesses are thinking carefully about who is positioned at the helm of the company and if he or she has the skills needed to navigate a complex business environment."
Despite more individuals in the top positions with technology expertise, the research shows that the average FTSE 100 CEO remains a British male in his 50s with a background in finance.
Only seven of the chief executives currently leading FTSE 100 companies are women, although this has increased from four in 2014.
It also reveals that organisations are looking to nurture homegrown talent, with the number of CEOs being promoted from within doubling to 41% in the last three years.
This is reflected in 11% of those in the top position having been at their company their whole career, while the number that have been CEOs at multiple companies has dropped to 16%.
In addition, the study found that it is no longer necessary to have attended Oxford or Cambridge to achieve a CEO position, with those that have declining from 23% to 17% since 2010.
"Strong leadership that can deliver profitability and create a sustainable advantage against competitors and new market entrants is key. Increasingly, CEOs must combine current industry knowledge with the commercial acumen needed to navigate the fast pace of change." Sheridan added.
