Transitioning To CEO

This programme includes learning high-impact tools and gaining insights to manage stakeholder relations, tackle office politics, and keep an open mind under pressure.

Transitioning to CEO is designed for CxO level executives who are aspiring to their first general management / CEO position. Typically, these executives have a background in finance or production. Collaborative experience has given them a deep understanding of functions and departments far beyond their original field of expertise, though they may not have held a formal position in the organization reflecting this. Although they have a corporate sponsor for their promotion, they may still face internal or external competition - not least because their focus has been more on results than on people.

The jump from CxO or VP to CEO is a big one in many respects. Among many other things, it requires new CEOs to take their self-management and self-reflection to a whole new level, so as to meet the manifold demands on their energy and resilience. This is not about time management. It is about surmounting or eliminating the potential hurdles of a CEO that are likely to be more serious than any that have been faced in previous management roles, including:

  • Keeping the balance between investing in future competitiveness and innovation while avoiding overexposure to risk.
  • An unmatched level of scrutiny by peers, HQ and shareholders 
  • Increasing need for - and scarcity of - unbiased feedback
  • The interpretation of every comment or nonverbal cue by co-workers
  • A new level of pressure around reporting dates (not only for listed companies)
  • Constant exposure to media and high-level PR duties
  • The need to develop high-level strategies and skills of influence without corrupting personal values
  • The instability of existing alliances and safety nets, being continually reassessed by all parties, requires the executive to be constantly keep an eye on these key relationships.

Sample Testimonials

More information available for regional HR managers and general managers wishing to promote a direct report. The material is designed to serve as a basis for a discussion between local and/or regional management and potential coachee.