C-level has a vastly different definition than sea level. One refers to the levels of senior management in an organization and the other is a measure of elevation. Let’s explore this in a little more detail.
When walking through the halls of your organization’s offices, have you heard someone say, “Hey Chief”? Does that mean he or she is the leader of a Native American tribe? Possibly, but that salutation may also refer to their level in your organization.
Overview: What is C-level?
C-level, also referred to as the C-suite, are the senior most levels of an organization. These senior leadership positions are commonly described by their function prefaced by the word Chief. Their job is to set the strategic direction of the organization and make the necessary decisions to assure the long-term success of the organization.
They are frequently housed on the same floor in a suite of offices with controlled access. Therefore their offices are often referred to as the C-suite. The most common Chief positions are:
- CEO – Chief Executive Officer – oversees the entire organization
- COO – Chief Operating Officer – focuses on day-to-day operations
- CFO – Chief Financial Officer – manages the financial operations
- CIO – Chief Information Officer – deals with the information technology function
- CCO – Chief Compliance Officer – concerned with compliance with rules, regulations, and laws
- CHRO – Chief Human Resources Officer – responsible for the human resource activities
- CSO – Chief Security Officer – responsible for the security of facilities, people, operations, and information
- CGO – Chief Green Officer – oversees environmental and sustainability issues
- CAO – Chief Analytics Officer – deals with the analysis of corporate data
- CMO – Chief Marketing Officer – manages brand management, marketing strategy, client communications and industry research
- CDO – Chief Data Officer – responsible for the collection and utilization of corporate data
- CINO – Chief Innovation Officer – seeks out new ideas and opportunities for innovation
- CTO – Chief Technology Officer – oversees information and technology systems
- CDO – Chief Diversity Officer – responsible for diversity, equity, and inclusion in the organization
- CXO – Chief Experience Officer – focuses on the customer experience
- CLO – Chief Legal Officer – also referred to as Chief Legal Counsel and is responsible for providing legal advice and handling legal matters of the organization
An industry example of C-level
Elon Musk, the new owner of Twitter named himself Chief Executive Officer, sole Director, and Chief Twit. The last designation made for some humor on late night TV comedy shows.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about C-level
Is the C-level of an organization the highest level?
Yes, the C-level of an organization represents the most senior leadership roles.
Is the C-level and C-suite the same?
Yes they are the same.
What are some of the common skills required to become part of the C-level?
An appropriate educational background, experience, communication and leadership skills, and relevant technical skills.
