Chief Executive Officers
Overview
Introduction
The chief executive officer is the highest ranking executive in a corporation or other organization. He or she oversees company operations, develops strategies for short- and long-term growth, and works closely with other top executives to ensure that goals are met and their organization runs smoothly. Chief executive officers (CEOs) typically report to a board of directors. Approximately 280,000 CEOs are employed in the United States. At some companies, CEOs may be known as presidents or chief executives. At nonpr...
Quick Facts
Median Salary
Employment Prospects
Minimum Education Level
Experience
Skills
Personality Traits
Earnings
Chief executives of publicly held companies are expected to generate strong financial profits for shareholders. As a result, CEOs of high-performing companies receive extremely lucrative compensation. In 2023, CEOs of the Standard & Poor’s 500 Index companies received, on average, $17.7 million in total compensation, according to the AFL-CIO’s analysis of data of 500 companies with availabl...
Work Environment
Chief executive officers (CEOs)—especially at large companies—enjoy very comfortable and attractive work environments. They have large, modern offices that are filled with the latest cutting-edge technology. Numerous support staff workers are available to help them do their jobs. CEOs often enjoy such perks as executive dining rooms, the use of company cars and jets, and liberal expense account...
Outlook
Employment for CEOs is expected to decline through 2032, according to the U.S. Department of Labor because of slowing growth regarding new companies and organizations. Despite this prediction, there will always be a need for skilled business executives because they are essential for the successful operation of any business or other organization.
Top executives are expected to face very s...