What does a CEO do?

Chief executive officers are senior leaders of an organization and are commonly a company’s highest-ranking executive. They are accountable for giving final approval to major decisions and must take ownership of core organizational policies, philosophies, and values. They establish and guide the comprehensive vision and strategies. They establish and oversee budgets, lead upper-level management teams, and determine a response plan during periods of crisis or emergency. They frequently serve as the public “face” of the company and also serve as the liaison between the board of directors and the rest of the executive suite and general staff.

Chief executive officers commonly have an advanced degree such as an MBA, and an extensive background in senior-level management roles with significant responsibility. This position requires excellent leadership skills and the ability to manage multiple urgent and high priority matters simultaneously.

Education--
Work/Life Balance
4.5 ★
Total Pay--
Career Opportunity
4.6 ★
Avg. Experience8+ years

How much does a CEO make?

Confident
$378,449 /yr
Total Pay
$180,853
 /yr

Base Pay

+
$197,596
 /yr

Additional Pay

$378,449

 / yr
$220K$693K
Most Likely Range
Possible Range
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CEO Career Path

Learn how to become a CEO, what skills and education you need to succeed, and what level of pay to expect at each step on your career path.

CEO

Years of Experience Distribution

0 - 1
4%
2 - 4
32%
5 - 7
32%
8+
32%
Not including years spent in education and/or training

CEO Insights

Read what CEO professionals have to say about their job experiences and view top companies for this career.
Adsnerd
CEO-Founder
May 22, 2023

“Career Growth and Development: Adsnerd is dedicated to the professional growth and development of its employees.”

Cascade Health ServicesCascade Health Services
President &CEO
Aug 26, 2021

“Our medical insurance is top notch but it is not inexpensive (we're working on that diligently)”

Lighter CapitalLighter Capital
Chief Executive Officer (CEO)
Feb 15, 2021

“We all genuinely care about our customers and recognize that its an enormous privilege to work with visionary founders.”

MicrosoftMicrosoft
CEO-Founder
Apr 13, 2021

“I worked with Microsoft for 7 years and it was indeed a great pleasure working for them.”

Webornet.ComWebornet.Com
CEO-Founder
Feb 20, 2021

“Good payment for your work and recognises you if you and your work is worth of.”

Amped HQAmped HQ
Chief Executive Officer
May 11, 2021

“A lot of career progression opportunities and support structures for professional growth and personal development.”

Database Consultants AustraliaDatabase Consultants Australia
Chief Executive Officer (CEO)
Aug 10, 2022

“Great opportunity for those who want to really forge a career in one of the most dynamic innovative industries”

Value Connect
CEO-Founder
Dec 16, 2021

“not the best place to work if you're not great at solving your own problems or taking calculated risks.”

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CEO Interviews

Frequently asked questions about the roles and responsibilities of a CEO

The most similar professions to CEO are:
  • President
  • Chief Operating Officer
  • Chief Financial Officer
  • Senior Leader

Related Careers

President
$352,786
No skills overlap
Chief Operating Officer
$355,608
No skills overlap
Chief Financial Officer
$321,928
No skills overlap
Senior Leader
$168,393

CEO Jobs