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working in executive and senior positions
Working in executive and senior positions

Working in Executive and Senior Positions

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Working in executive and senior positions

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C-suite and D-suite are a collection of leadership positions. Roles include Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Chief Operating Officer (COO), Chief Financial Officer (CFO), Chief Information Officer (CIO), Vice-Presidents (VP) and Directors. Each of these positions come with unique responsibilities and opportunities.

Senior appointments will demonstrate expertise in their specific field. This may include having a deep understanding of the industry and its competitive landscape, being adept at strategic planning and problem-solving, and possessing strong leadership and emotional intelligence.

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137 survey respondents in senior management roles
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Deborah Crilly - Director, Cpl Executive Search

Deborah has over 20 years’ experience in recruitment. She joined the Cpl Group in 2018 and is responsible for the service delivery and senior executive talent acquisition for a varied client base including indigenous, SME & multinational businesses.
Deborah has experience recruiting and managing teams across multi-vertical markets and disciplines including, Sales, Marketing, Financial Services, Tax, HR, Legal, Professional Services & Aviation.

Deborah Crilly - Director, Cpl Executive Search

What are the top soft skills needed for an executive or senior role?

Executive and senior roles often require the highest level of expertise, organisation and leadership skills. To be successful in these positions, it is essential to have a broad range of soft or people skills, including strong communication, problem-solving and interpersonal abilities. Executive and senior roles also need to take responsibility for their actions and decisions. Additionally, strong strategic planning skills, the ability to delegate tasks, and the capacity to develop relationships with key stakeholders are essential. Finally, strong self-awareness, emotional intelligence, and a commitment to professional growth are also important skills for senior executives.

What benefits can senior executive candidates expect to be offered?

At executive level, candidates can expect all or a combination of below:

  • Company performance-based bonuses and/or commissions

  • STIPS/LTIPS or equity plans

  • Healthcare (Individual and/or family plan)

  • Pension contributions

  • Relocation package (if applicable)

  • Car/car allowances

  • Professional fees

  • Continuous professional development/education

  • Flexible & smart working practices

  • Unpaid leave or generous annual leave

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1400 survey respondents

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What’s the difference between SMB and Enterprise benefit offerings for senior executives?

Enterprise and multinational companies have paved the way for generous benefits. Although, small to medium-sized businesses are rapidly adapting their offerings to draw top talent.

SMBs are focusing on creative People Value Propositions (PVP). They also offer flexible working practices, health and wellness initiatives, continuous professional development, and equity/profits rather than stock options or RSUs, which Multinational Corporations (MNCs) may offer.

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What flexible working arrangements can a senior executive candidate expect?

Flexible working is very much ingrained within executive and senior appointments now, with most working within a hybrid model. In certain instances (predominately start-ups), executives may avail of a 100% remote working arrangement. We envisage a shift in this for 2023 as companies settle back into a new normal. It will very much depend on your industry as to which model works best.

How does company size affect senior executive salaries?

Larger enterprises tend to be incredibly competitive on salary. They tend to offer salaries in line with the market rate and are cognisant of inflationary pressures. SMEs may have slightly more flexibility in tailoring packages although can sometimes lack knowledge of market rates.

Company size is not always an indicator of salaries; however, larger companies can offer greater rewards and benefits schemes. Enterprises or MNCs can be restricted to predetermined salary ranges and grades. SMBs can offer a more flexible approach due to the lack of structure in this space.

How do years of experience affect senior executive salaries?

Positively. Experience is generally well rewarded, and salaries improve as experience is gained. However, salary bands and grades can sometimes cause limitations in certain companies.

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​How does higher education or other learning and development affect senior executive salaries?

Many executives across all sectors have invested in continuous professional development and have upskilled by completing courses relevant to their industry/job function. Many executives will typically complete a leadership qualification in recognition of the expansive and shaping roles they have within organisations.

Education may be considered when deciding to bring the candidate forward to an interview at the initial stages of a process. It can influence their opportunity to progress, which will in turn affect candidates' ability to increase their salary.

What are the expected salary growth levels in senior executive roles?

Salaries are continuing to increase. Variations can be seen across different verticals.

  • SMB: Slower growth considering the fact they often lack market intel. Yet they are often the most flexible or creative when faced with salary challenges.

  • Enterprise: Increase in line with market rates. It can be competitive to attract the right talent.

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Ready to continue​ your career as a senior executive?

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