Top executives formulate the policies and direct the operations or corporations and government agencies. All organizations have specific goals and objectives that they strive to meet. Top executives develop strategies to make sure that these objectives are met. Although they have a wide range of titles such as chief executives officer, president, owner, or executive vice president, all create policies and direct the operations of businesses and corporations, and other organizations. Job Description The chief executive, along with other top executives, establish a corporations goals and policies.
In large corporations, the executive officer meets regularly with assistant executives to ensure that operations are applied with these policies. The duties for top executives are highly specialized. For instance, managers of cost and profit center are responsible for the overall performance of one aspect of the organization, like the marketing, sales, purchasing, finance, or training departments. Education/Training Required The educational background of top executives varies as widely as the nature of their responsibilities. Many need a bachelors degree or higher in liberal arts or business administration.
The major is usually related to the department they lead, such as an executive of finance may have a degree in accounting. Commonly, top executives have graduate and professional degrees. Since many top executive positions are filled by promoting experienced, lower level managers when an opening happens, many are promoted within the organization. In industries like retail trade, it is possible for people without a college degree to work up within the company. Top executives must have highly developed personal skills. An analytical mind is very important to quickly assess large amounts of information and data.
They must also be able to communicate clearly and persuasively. Other qualities vital for success include leadership, self-confidence, motivation, flexibility, decisiveness, business judgment, and determination. Chief executive officers often become members of the board of directors of one or more firms, typically as a director of their own firm and chair of its board of directors. Some top executives establish their own firms or become independent consultants. Education/Training Costs & Location Advancement may be accelerated by participation in company training programs that impart a broader knowledge of company policy and operations.
By becoming familiar with the latest developments in management techniques at national or local training programs sponsored by different industry and trade associations, this education will help executives in their careers. Those who have experience in a particular field, such as accounting or retailing, also attend executive development programs to assist their support to others. Participation in conferences and seminars can expand understanding of national and international issues influencing the organization and can help widen a network of valuable contacts.