What does a CEO do?

What is a CEO?

A CEO, or Chief Executive Officer, is the highest-ranking executive in a company, responsible for making major corporate decisions, managing the overall operations and resources of the organization, and acting as the main point of communication between the board of directors and corporate management.

The CEO sets the company's strategic direction, establishes goals and objectives, and oversees the implementation of plans to achieve long-term growth and profitability. Additionally, the CEO plays a key role in representing the company to investors, employees, customers, and the public, and is often seen as the face of the organization.

CEOs play a vital role in organizations as they provide vision, strategic direction, and overall leadership. They are responsible for making critical decisions, driving growth, and ensuring the long-term success of the company. They navigate through complex challenges, adapt to market dynamics, and seize opportunities to create value.

Duties and Responsibilities
As the highest-ranking executive in an organization, a CEO has a wide range of duties and responsibilities. Some of the key responsibilities of a CEO include:

Strategic Leadership: The CEO is responsible for providing strategic direction and leadership to the organization. They set the overall vision, mission, and goals of the company and develop strategies to achieve them. This involves analyzing market trends, identifying opportunities and risks, and making informed decisions to drive the company's growth and success.
Decision-making: CEOs are responsible for making critical decisions that impact the organization. They assess various factors, including financial data, market conditions, and internal capabilities, to make informed choices about investments, expansion, product development, and resource allocation. The CEO must balance short-term goals with long-term objectives and consider the best interests of the company and its stakeholders.
Operational Management: The CEO oversees the day-to-day operations of the organization and ensures that business activities are carried out efficiently and effectively. This involves working closely with senior executives and department heads to establish and monitor performance metrics, streamline processes, and drive operational excellence. The CEO may also be involved in resolving conflicts, addressing operational challenges, and promoting a culture of continuous improvement.
Stakeholder Management: CEOs play a significant role in building and maintaining relationships with various stakeholders, including shareholders, board members, employees, customers, partners, and the community. They communicate the company's strategy, performance, and objectives to stakeholders and ensure their interests are considered. CEOs often represent the organization in external engagements, such as investor meetings, industry conferences, and media interactions.
Corporate Governance: CEOs are responsible for upholding strong corporate governance practices within the organization. They work closely with the board of directors, ensuring transparency, accountability, and compliance with legal and regulatory requirements. CEOs provide regular reports and updates to the board, seek their guidance and approval on major decisions, and collaborate to define the company's risk appetite and strategic priorities.
Culture and Talent Management: CEOs are responsible for establishing and nurturing a positive organizational culture that aligns with the company's values and objectives. They set the tone for ethical behavior, innovation, and performance excellence. CEOs also attract, develop, and retain top talent. They create an environment that fosters employee engagement, professional growth, and diversity and inclusion.
External Relations and Reputation Management: CEOs serve as the face of the company and often represent it in public and media engagements. They build and maintain relationships with key stakeholders, such as government officials, industry leaders, and media representatives. CEOs are responsible for managing the company's reputation and ensuring that its actions and communications align with its values and long-term objectives.

Types of CEOs
There are various types of CEOs based on different organizational structures and contexts. Here are some common types of CEOs and a brief overview of their roles:

Divisional CEO: In larger corporations, there may be CEOs responsible for specific divisions or business units. They have a narrower scope of responsibility, focusing on the performance and growth of their respective divisions while aligning with the overall corporate strategy. Divisional CEOs often collaborate with the corporate CEO and other leaders to ensure coordination and synergy across the organization.
Entrepreneurial CEO: In startups or companies founded by entrepreneurs, the CEO is often the founder themselves. They play a multifaceted role, including setting the vision, driving innovation, securing funding, and building the team. Entrepreneurial CEOs are typically involved in various aspects of the business, from product development to marketing and fundraising.
Interim CEO: An interim CEO is appointed for a temporary period to lead the organization during a transition phase. This could be due to a sudden departure of the previous CEO, a merger or acquisition, or a planned leadership change. The interim CEO provides stability, manages day-to-day operations, and prepares the organization for the arrival of a permanent CEO.
Non-Profit CEO: In a non-profit organization, the CEO is responsible for achieving the organization's mission and managing its activities in line with its charitable or social objectives. They often work closely with the board of directors, donors, and community stakeholders. The CEO of a non-profit organization must balance financial sustainability with the delivery of social impact.
Private Company CEO: The CEO of a private company oversees the overall management and operations of the organization. They have more flexibility in decision-making and are accountable to the company's owners or shareholders. The CEO focuses on growth, profitability, and building a competitive advantage in the market.
Public Company CEO: This CEO leads a company that is publicly traded and accountable to shareholders. They are responsible for overall strategic direction, financial performance, and compliance with regulatory requirements. They work closely with the board of directors, communicate with investors, and manage relationships with analysts and financial institutions.

Are you suited to be a CEO?

CEOs have distinct personalities. They tend to be enterprising individuals, which means they’re adventurous, ambitious, assertive, extroverted, energetic, enthusiastic, confident, and optimistic. They are dominant, persuasive, and motivational. Some of them are also investigative, meaning they’re intellectual, introspective, and inquisitive.

Does this sound like you? Take our free career test to find out if CEO is one of your top career matches.

Take the free test now Learn more about the career test

What is the workplace of a CEO like?

The workplace of a CEO varies depending on the size and nature of the company, but it typically involves a combination of office-based work, meetings, and travel. At the company headquarters or main office, the CEO typically has a private office where they can conduct meetings, make strategic decisions, and engage in focused work. This space may be equipped with amenities such as a desk, computer, phone, and other tools necessary for effective leadership.

In addition to office-based work, CEOs often spend a significant amount of time in meetings with other executives, department heads, and key stakeholders. These meetings may include strategy sessions, performance reviews, budget discussions, and presentations to the board of directors or shareholders. CEOs also frequently engage in networking events, industry conferences, and speaking engagements to represent the company, build relationships, and stay informed about industry trends and developments.

Furthermore, CEOs frequently travel to visit company locations, meet with clients or customers, attend industry events, and pursue business opportunities. This travel may be both domestic and international, depending on the company's global footprint and expansion plans.

Frequently Asked Questions

CEO vs COO

The roles of a CEO (Chief Executive Officer) and a COO (Chief Operating Officer) are distinct but complementary within an organization. While the CEO is the highest-ranking executive responsible for overall strategic direction and decision-making, the COO focuses on operational management and the implementation of strategic plans. Here is a detailed comparison of both roles:

CEO (Chief Executive Officer):

Strategic Leadership: The CEO sets the company's vision, mission, and long-term strategic goals. They are responsible for defining the overall direction and ensuring that the organization's activities align with its strategic objectives.
Board Relations: The CEO works closely with the board of directors, providing updates, seeking guidance, and obtaining approvals for major decisions. They often serve as a liaison between the board and the rest of the organization.
External Stakeholder Management: The CEO represents the company externally and engages with stakeholders such as investors, partners, government officials, and the media. They are responsible for building relationships, managing the company's reputation, and promoting its interests.
Financial Oversight: The CEO has ultimate responsibility for the company's financial performance. They work with the CFO (Chief Financial Officer) to ensure financial stability, profitability, and sustainable growth.
Setting Organizational Culture: The CEO plays a critical role in shaping and fostering the company's culture, values, and ethical standards. They establish a positive work environment and ensure that employees are aligned with the organization's mission and values.

COO (Chief Operating Officer):

Operational Management: The COO focuses on the day-to-day operations of the organization. They translate the CEO's strategic vision into actionable plans and ensure their implementation across different departments and business units.
Process Optimization: The COO is responsible for identifying and implementing process improvements to enhance operational efficiency, productivity, and quality. They streamline workflows, eliminate bottlenecks, and drive continuous improvement initiatives.
Cross-Functional Coordination: The COO works closely with various departments, such as operations, finance, HR, and IT, to ensure effective coordination and collaboration. They foster communication and alignment between different teams to achieve organizational goals.
Resource Allocation: The COO oversees the allocation of resources, including budgets, personnel, and technology, to support the organization's operations. They optimize resource allocation to maximize efficiency and achieve desired outcomes.
Performance Monitoring: The COO establishes performance metrics, monitors key performance indicators, and tracks progress towards operational goals. They analyze data and provide insights to the CEO to support decision-making and drive operational excellence.

While the CEO focuses on long-term strategic planning and external relationships, the COO is more involved in day-to-day operations, process optimization, and cross-functional coordination. The CEO sets the overall direction and vision, while the COO ensures efficient execution and operational effectiveness. Both roles are crucial for the success of an organization, and effective collaboration between the CEO and COO is essential for achieving strategic objectives and operational excellence.

See Also

COO

Qualities of a Great CEO

Several qualities contribute to making a great CEO. While the specific characteristics may vary based on the company's industry and circumstances, here are some key attributes that are commonly associated with effective CEOs:

Visionary Leadership: A great CEO has a clear and compelling vision for the company's future. They inspire and motivate others with their vision, setting a strategic direction that aligns with the organization's values and objectives. They have the ability to communicate their vision effectively and rally employees and stakeholders around it.
Strategic Thinking: CEOs must possess strong strategic thinking abilities. They can analyze complex situations, anticipate trends, and identify opportunities and risks. They consider multiple perspectives and make informed decisions that align with the long-term goals and interests of the organization. CEOs also continuously adapt and refine strategies based on changing market dynamics.
Decisiveness: Great CEOs are decisive and capable of making tough decisions in a timely manner. They gather and evaluate relevant information, weigh the pros and cons, and have the confidence to make choices, even in the face of uncertainty. Decisiveness is essential in fast-paced business environments, where quick and effective decision-making is crucial.
Resilience and Adaptability: CEOs encounter various challenges and setbacks throughout their leadership journey. A great CEO displays resilience, remaining calm under pressure, and persevering through adversity. They embrace change and are adaptable to evolving market conditions, industry disruptions, and emerging technologies. They lead their organization through change and guide employees in adapting to new realities.
Effective Communication: Communication skills are vital for CEOs. They need to articulate their vision, strategy, and expectations clearly to employees, board members, investors, and other stakeholders. Great CEOs are active listeners, empathetic communicators, and adept at delivering messages in a compelling and influential manner. They foster open and transparent communication throughout the organization.
Emotional Intelligence: CEOs with high emotional intelligence possess strong self-awareness, empathy, and the ability to understand and manage their own emotions and those of others. They build positive relationships, inspire trust, and effectively navigate interpersonal dynamics. Emotional intelligence enables CEOs to handle conflicts, motivate employees, and build cohesive teams.
Continuous Learning: Great CEOs have a thirst for knowledge and a commitment to lifelong learning. They stay informed about industry trends, emerging technologies, and best practices. They seek feedback, embrace constructive criticism, and actively seek opportunities for personal and professional growth. Continuous learning allows CEOs to stay ahead in a rapidly changing business landscape.
Ethical Leadership: Integrity and ethical conduct are essential traits for a great CEO. They lead by example, demonstrating a strong commitment to ethical business practices, transparency, and accountability. They prioritize long-term sustainability over short-term gains and act in the best interests of the organization and its stakeholders.
Team Building and Talent Development: CEOs understand the importance of building high-performing teams. They attract and retain top talent, foster a culture of collaboration and innovation, and provide opportunities for professional growth. They delegate effectively, empowering employees to take ownership and make meaningful contributions.
Results-Oriented Mindset: Ultimately, a great CEO is driven by results and achieving the organization's objectives. They set ambitious goals, monitor performance metrics, and hold themselves and their teams accountable for delivering results. They create a performance-driven culture that encourages excellence, innovation, and a focus on outcomes.

Pros and Cons of Being a CEO

Being a CEO comes with its share of advantages and disadvantages. Understanding the pros and cons can provide insights into the challenges and rewards associated with this influential position.

Pros:

Leadership and Influence: CEOs have the opportunity to shape the strategic direction of the organization, make critical decisions, and lead teams towards achieving ambitious goals. They have the power to inspire and influence others, driving innovation and fostering a positive organizational culture.
Compensation and Financial Rewards: CEOs are typically well-compensated, with salaries that reflect the level of responsibility and impact they have on the company's success. In addition to base salary, CEOs often receive performance-based bonuses, stock options, and other financial incentives.
Professional Growth and Development: The CEO role presents continuous opportunities for personal and professional growth. CEOs gain valuable experience in various aspects of business, including finance, operations, marketing, and leadership. They also have access to networks of influential individuals and industry leaders, providing avenues for learning and mentorship.

Cons:

Heavy Workload and Responsibility: CEOs face a demanding workload, often requiring long hours, intense decision-making, and constant availability. They must juggle multiple responsibilities, including strategic planning, financial oversight, stakeholder management, and operational challenges. The weight of responsibility can be mentally and emotionally taxing.
High Expectations and Pressure: As the top leader, CEOs are expected to deliver consistent results and drive the organization's success. They face immense pressure from shareholders, board members, employees, and external stakeholders to meet financial targets, navigate competitive markets, and respond to crises effectively. The pressure to perform can be intense and can lead to high levels of stress.
Limited Personal Time and Work-Life Balance: The demanding nature of the CEO role often leaves limited time for personal pursuits and work-life balance. CEOs may need to prioritize work commitments over personal and family time, leading to potential strains on relationships and personal well-being.
Scrutiny and Accountability: CEOs operate under constant scrutiny, with their decisions and actions subject to scrutiny from various stakeholders, including shareholders, employees, and the public. They must navigate complex legal and ethical considerations and maintain a strong reputation for the company and themselves.
Isolation and Loneliness: The CEO position can be isolating, with few peers who fully understand the challenges and pressures associated with the role. CEOs may find it difficult to seek support or discuss certain issues openly, leading to a sense of loneliness and the need to make tough decisions independently.

CEOs are also known as:
Chief Executive Officer