How to Get a Job as a Chief Executive Officer (CEO)

Chief Executive Officers (CEOs) are responsible for setting the strategic direction, making high-level decisions, and managing the overall operations of organizations. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of top executives is projected to grow 6% from 2023 to 2033, with approximately 48,000 new positions annually (bls.gov). Here’s how to pursue a career as a CEO.

Entry-Level Requirements for Chief Executive Officers

1. Education: A bachelor’s degree in business, finance, management, or a related field is typically required; many CEOs also hold an MBA or other advanced degrees.

2. Experience: Extensive leadership experience in management or senior operational roles is essential.

3. Professional Development: Participation in executive programs, leadership training, and industry-specific certifications can enhance candidacy.

Expected Salary for Chief Executive Officers

Salaries vary widely depending on company size, industry, and performance:

• Entry-Level CEO: $80,000–$150,000 annually.

• Mid-Level CEO: $150,000–$400,000 annually.

• Senior-Level / Large Corporation CEO: $400,000–$1,500,000+ annually.

Median salary for top executives is approximately $184,460 per BLS data (bls.gov).

Skills and Abilities Needed to Excel

• Strategic Vision and Planning

• Leadership and Team Management

• Decision-Making under Pressure

• Financial Acumen

• Communication and Negotiation

• Adaptability and Crisis Management

Is Being a CEO Suitable for Introverts or Extroverts?

The CEO role is better suited for extroverts, as it requires frequent public speaking, networking, and stakeholder engagement.

Top 5 Degree Programs with Best ROI for Aspiring CEOs

1. Harvard Business School (MBA)

2. Stanford Graduate School of Business (MBA)

3. University of Pennsylvania – Wharton (MBA)

4. University of Chicago – Booth School of Business (MBA)

5. MIT Sloan School of Management (MBA)

Can You Become a CEO Without a Degree?

While some entrepreneurs and leaders have become CEOs without formal degrees, most corporate CEO positions require advanced education combined with extensive management experience.

Five Jobs Similar to Chief Executive Officer

1. Chief Operating Officer (COO)

2. Chief Financial Officer (CFO)

3. General Manager

4. President of a Company

5. Managing Director

Top Ten Recruitment Agencies Specializing in Executive Roles

1. Korn Ferry

2. Spencer Stuart

3. Russell Reynolds Associates

4. Heidrick & Struggles

5. Egon Zehnder

6. Odgers Berndtson

7. Boyden

8. CTPartners

9. Diversified Search

10. DHR International

Top Ten Employers Hiring CEOs

1. Apple

2. Microsoft

3. Google / Alphabet

4. Amazon

5. Walmart

6. Facebook / Meta

7. Johnson & Johnson

8. Procter & Gamble

9. Tesla

10. IBM

Top Ten Startups or Growing Companies Hiring CEO-Level Leaders

1. Stripe

2. Airbnb

3. SpaceX

4. Palantir Technologies

5. Snowflake

6. Robinhood

7. DoorDash

8. Coinbase

9. UiPath

10. Rivian

Becoming a CEO requires a combination of education, extensive experience, and exceptional leadership skills. With the right preparation and strategic career moves, you can reach this highly influential and rewarding position. Learn about other high-demand jobs over the next decade here.