What Is the C-Suite? C- Level Executives Explained

The C-suite refers to the group of high-level executives working for a company. These professionals are typically experts in their fields and lead their organizational departments. Being a C-level executive means a person has the education and experience necessary to promote corporate growth and change.

The C-suite is a term people use when describing high-ranking executives within a company. The “C” stands for “chief,” which is a part of the title these leaders share.

Also called the “C-level,” the C-suite refers to a team of people that ensures the company remains committed to its goals and established plans. Due to the importance of these roles, C-level executives usually work long hours, but they also typically have high wages and great compensation packages.

The C-suite has some of the most influential people within an organization, so reaching this level requires a lot of experience and expert-like management skills. Learning about company structures and who the C-level executives are will help employees and applicants understand how this team impacts the organization. 

What Is a C-Level Executive?

A C-level executive is a person who holds a senior leadership position that impacts business decisions, creates enduring changes and helps grow the company. A C-level executive leads various management teams and employees within different company departments.

Even though C-suite leaders set the direction of many plans or policies, they don’t typically engage with day-to-day tasks. Instead, most C-level executives focus on bigger-picture issues and the overall direction of various company components.

Where Does C-Level Land in a Company's Hierarchy?

The C-level is the top level in a company’s hierarchy. This level of leadership reports only to founders and the board of directors. 

The board approves or denies (and asks for amendments to) any recommendation that the C-level execs advise. This ensures that decisions consider the interests of stakeholders in the company.

Shareholders elect the board of directors. Then, the board of directors chooses and hires the C-suite executives. Most C-suites consist of at least a chief executive officer, a chief operations officer and a chief financial officer.

Typical C-Suite Positions and What They Do 

While the corporate structure may look different in other countries, typical C-suite positions in the United States include:

• Chief executive officer
• Chief operations officer 
• Chief financial officer
• Chief technology officer
• Chief human resources officer
• Chief marketing officer
• Chief legal officer

There are other C-level executive positions as well, such as chief security officer, chief compliance officer or chief diversity officer. 

Some companies include these roles as part of other C-suite positions, which is why every organization is slightly different in this regard. However, we will explain the most common C-suite positions and what they do below. 

CEO (Chief Executive Officer)

The CEO is the person that leads the company. They report to the company’s board of directors regarding all decisions and policy, structure or plan changes. A CEO must always keep the company’s vision in mind and ensure they are looking at the big picture of what the future may hold. 

COO (Chief Operations Officer)

The COO is typically second-in-command at a company, overseeing direct operations. The COO aims to improve management practices and introduce efficient changes to processes. 

CFO (Chief Financial Officer)

CFOs keep track of the company’s budget and protect its vital assets. They also ensure the company maintains compliance with financial regulations and communicate financial risk to investors or the board of directors. 

CTO (Chief Technology Officer)

A CTO develops, manages and assesses the company’s tech and resources. They ensure the technology meets long- and short-term needs and that all investments into tech aid the organization with its mission and goals. 

CHRO (Chief Human Resources Officer)

The CHRO runs the organization’s HR systems and human capital management. They help determine why the organization isn’t meeting goals and what may need to change with management, company structure and personnel to do better. This may include changing recruitment strategies or updating the company culture. 

CMO (Chief Marketing Officer)

CMOs increase sales and help the company grow by helping create a marketing plan and determining what the company can do to outperform competitors. A CMO may expand the marketing program, decide where to focus strategies and ensure the marketing team helps reach company-wide goals.

CLO (Chief Legal Officer)

The CLO leads all other in-house attorneys and provides direction regarding severe legal concerns that may impact the company. A CLO’s goal is to minimize legal risks and advise other C-suite officers or board members regarding legal matters.

How to Become a C-Level Executive

The main factors to focus on if you’re interested in becoming a C-level executive include:

• Education
• Experience
• Necessary skills

Most people in C-suite positions have at least a bachelor’s degree in a related field. However, competitive industries may require candidates with more advanced education.

C-level executives have a lot of responsibility, so they need plenty of experience to make the right choices. Adrienne Tom, an executive resume writer and job search strategist, says that focusing on the positions you want, showcasing achievements and ensuring experience aligns with future requirements are the best way to achieve professional goals. This means that even someone without the exact “right experience” to land a C-level position could still do so.

Even so, however, at least 10 years of experience or more in related departments and at least five years of experience in a leadership position will increase one’s chances of landing a C-suite role.

Leadership skills, including interpersonal and communication skills, are also necessary for anyone who wants a role at this level. This ensures C-level executives can easily explain changes and effectively impact their departments.

Top Takeaways 

What is the C-suite? C-level Executives Explained

• The C-suite refers to a group of leaders with the title of “chief” in various departments across a company.
• C-level executives are senior managers who make decisions regarding company policy and growth.
• Companies may choose how many C-level executives they have, but the most essential are CEOs, COOs and CFOs. 
• To become a C-level executive, a person needs the right education, experience and skills.

(Reporting by NPD)