What is the "Chief Executive Officer"?

A "Definition"

The definition of "chief executive officer" (almost always) depends on whether a business is a corporation or not, that is, whether it (usually) has a board of directors or not. In an organization that has a board of directors, the "chief executive officer" is (usually) the singular organizational position that is primarily responsible to carry out the strategic plans and policies as established by the board of directors. In this case, the chief executive reports to the board of directors. In a form of business that is usually without a board of directors (sole proprietorship, partnership, etc.), the "chief executive officer" is (usually) the singular organizational position (other than partnerships, etc.) that sets the direction and oversees the operations of an organization.

Major Roles of the Position of Chief Executive Officer

LEADER
· Advises the Board
· Advocates / promotes organization and stakeholder change related to organization mission
· Supports motivation of employees in organization products/programs and operations

VISIONARY / INFORMATION BEARER
· Ensures staff and Board have sufficient and up-to-date information
· Looks to the future for change opportunities
· Interfaces between Board and employees
· Interfaces between organization and community

DECISION MAKER
· Formulates policies and planning recommendations to the Board
· Decides or guides courses of action in operations by staff

MANAGER
· Oversees operations of organization
· Implements plans
· Manages human resources of organization
· Manages financial and physical resources

BOARD DEVELOPER
· Assists in the selection and evaluation of board members
· Makes recommendations, supports Board during orientation and self-evaluation
· Supports Board's evaluation of Chief Executive