Chief Executives
O*NET 11-1011.00 · SOC 11-1011
Chief Executive is a solid career choice. Median pay is $214k a year with +3.2% projected growth through 2035 (about as fast as average) and about 19,100 openings a year. AI exposure: Moderate.
Bureau of Labor Statistics projections 2025–2035 · Data updated 2026-07-27
What You'd Actually Do
- →Set organizational strategy and vision
- →Make high-stakes business decisions
- →Oversee executive leadership teams
- →Represent the company to stakeholders
- →Drive revenue and growth targets
Education & How to Get In
Chief Executive roles typically require a master's degree, doctorate, or professional degree. This is a long-term investment, expect 6–10 years of post-secondary education, but the depth of expertise commands strong compensation and career stability.
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Work Environment
Leadership, offices, client meetings, or hybrid
Collaborative, frequent interaction with teams, clients, or patients
A Day in the Life
While every role varies by employer and specialization, a typical day as a Chief Executive involves a mix of core responsibilities:
Personality Fit (RIASEC)
Who Thrives as Chief Executive?
Based on the interests and work style this role actually demands, these personality types tend to fit it best. Salary and growth tell you if a career is worth entering; personality fit tells you whether you'll still want it in five years.
Not sure which you are? Take the 7-minute quiz →
See Open Chief Executive Roles
Browse live openings to get a feel for requirements and pay in your area.
Similar Careers
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Job Outlook
Employment of Chief Executives is projected to grow 3.2% from 2025 to 2035, about as fast as average for all occupations.
Will AI Replace This Job?
- ·41% social/interpersonal tasks, hard for AI to replace
- ·26% creative/strategic tasks, AI augments, doesn't replace
Scored from the mix of routine, creative, physical and social tasks the role involves, adjusted for sector and projected growth. An estimate, not a forecast.
Common Questions
How much does a Chief Executive make?
The median Chief Executive earns $214k a year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics' May 2025 wage data. Half earn more than that and half earn less, and pay varies considerably by state, industry and experience.
Will AI replace Chief Executive jobs?
Our model puts Chief Executive at 33 out of 100 for automation exposure, which is moderate, likely AI-complementary. The main drivers: 41% social/interpersonal tasks, hard for AI to replace; 26% creative/strategic tasks, AI augments, doesn't replace.
Is Chief Executive a growing field?
Employment is projected to grow 3.2% between 2025 and 2035, which is about as fast as average. That works out to roughly 19,100 openings a year, counting both new positions and people leaving the occupation.
What degree do you need to be a Chief Executive?
Chief Executive roles generally require a master's, doctorate or professional degree, so plan for graduate study rather than a bachelor's alone.
How long does it take to become a Chief Executive?
Typically six to ten years, typically a master's, doctorate or professional degree. O*NET classes this role as Job Zone 5 of 5, which describes how much preparation people in it usually have.
Is a Chief Executive career right for you?
Your personality, values, and strengths matter as much as the job market. Take the quiz to see your personalized Future-Fit Score for this career and hundreds more.
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