Walmsley Wilkinson reports rise in executive sabbaticals

A growing number of senior managers and executives are choosing to step away from their working lives and embrace purposeful time out, according to Clitheroe based Walmsley Wilkinson Executive and Management Recruitment.

A 2023 Harvard Business Review survey found that sabbaticals were growing exponentially, driven largely by wellbeing and work-life balance priorities.

Meanwhile, LinkedIn’s 2025 Workforce Confidence Index reports a 40 per cent increase in searches related to sabbaticals and career breaks over the past three years.

Taryn Wilkinson, director at Walmsley Wilkinson, said: “Taking time out shouldn’t be seen as a career collapse; it can be a reset, a reinvigoration and an opportunity to grow both personally and professionally.

“We’re seeing a real shift where executives are embracing sabbaticals as intentional, strategic and enriching rather than merely reactive.”

Walmsley Wilkinson reports that key drivers behind executive sabbaticals include pursuing personal ambitions such as travel or homebuilding, decompressing after business sales or intensive leadership roles, taking proactive steps to restore energy and engagement and gaining clarity on values and future career direction.

Taryn said: "Sabbaticals can be transformative, but they’re often most effective when they’re intentional.

“Having a framework for your return ensures you come back with momentum and confidence.”

Despite their benefits, re-entering the workforce can present challenges. Many executives report uncertainty around positioning themselves after extended time away, even when the break has been positive.

To support a successful transition back to work, Walmsley Wilkinson recommends defining clear post-sabbatical goals before stepping away, maintaining light professional engagement during time out, refreshing CVs and LinkedIn profiles ahead of re-entry, and engaging with a recruiter early to map market opportunities.

The firm also notes that organisations have a role to play in normalising career breaks. Companies that actively support sabbaticals can strengthen their employer brand, attract top talent and demonstrate a commitment to employee wellbeing.

Taryn added: "The most effective employers recognise that career breaks, when approached strategically, are not a liability - they’re an asset."

Walmsley Wilkinson say that sabbaticals are increasingly viewed not simply as time away, but as a catalyst for reflection, innovation and renewed purpose.

With thoughtful planning, senior leaders can return to the workplace with greater clarity and enhanced value.

Whether driven by long-planned sabbaticals, post-business exits, redundancy packages or burnout, senior leaders are redefining what it means to be “between roles.” Increasingly, these periods are being used for meaningful pursuits such as global travel, building a dream home, angel investing, volunteering or spending time with family.