CEE Executive Mobility 2026: What’s Driving Movement Across the Region

The Attractiveness of Central & Eastern Europe

This section focuses on how executives view the region.

Key findings:

• Poland (20), Czech Republic (17), and Hungary (14), ranked most attractive
• Strong economic growth and improving infrastructure
• Competitive quality of life
• Lower cost of living compared to Western Europe

Despite the significant economic progress of the region, several executives commented that misconceptions about Central & Eastern Europe still persist among international talent pools.

CEE is sometimes still perceived as a “second-tier” destination compared to Western Europe. However, many executives stressed that the reality is very different today.

Cities across the region offer a safe environment, high quality of life, strong infrastructure, dynamic business environments and attractive career opportunities. In many cases, work–life balance and cost of living can be more favourable than in Western European capitals.

Central and Eastern Europe is home to approximately 300–350 international schools, reflecting the region’s growing attractiveness for internationally mobile executives and their families.

As a result, the positioning of roles in the region is extremely important. Companies must be careful not to frame relocations as “hardship postings” or roles that others are unwilling to take. Instead, opportunities should be presented as strategic leadership positions with clear long-term career value.

Important insight:

CEE is becoming an increasingly competitive leadership destination, yet perceptions outside the region often lag behind reality.