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CEO Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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CEO

[ˌsiː.iːˈoʊ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

business

Chief Executive Officer (CEO) is the highest-ranking executive in a company, responsible for making major corporate decisions, managing the overall operations and resources of a company, and acting as the main point of communication between the board of directors and corporate operations.

Synonyms

chief executive, executive director, president.

Examples of usage

  • The CEO of the company announced a new strategic plan.
  • The CEO is in charge of setting the company's direction and vision.
  • The CEO's decision to expand into new markets was well-received by shareholders.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Business Practices

  • CEOs often communicate the company's vision and values to guide employees and stakeholders.
  • In recent years, many companies have adopted more diverse leadership, with an increased number of female and minority CEOs.
  • A CEO's compensation can vary dramatically, often influenced by the company's size and success, with some making millions each year.

Cultural Impact

  • The portrayal of CEOs in media often reflects societal perceptions of power and success, sometimes emphasizing wealth.
  • In popular culture, some CEOs have become celebrities, with public figures like Elon Musk and Jeff Bezos frequently in the news.
  • The concept of a 'startup CEO' has gained traction in tech culture, highlighting young leaders at the helm of innovative companies.

Technology

  • Many modern CEOs need to understand technology to navigate today's digital landscape effectively.
  • The rise of remote work has changed how some CEOs operate, emphasizing the need for digital communication and management skills.
  • Tech company CEOs often lead efforts in innovation, pushing the boundaries of what products and services can achieve.

Leadership Styles

  • Different CEOs adopt various leadership styles, from autocratic to democratic, influencing company culture and employee morale.
  • Transformational leadership is a popular approach among modern CEOs, focusing on inspiring and motivating their teams.
  • CEOs often face criticism for their decisions and leadership style, shaping public opinion about corporate governance.

Origin of 'CEO'

Main points about word origin

  • The term 'CEO' stands for Chief Executive Officer, with 'chief' meaning the main person in charge.
  • The role of a CEO started to become popular in the mid-20th century as businesses grew larger and more complex.
  • Originally, the top business leader was often called a 'president', but 'CEO' became more common as companies expanded globally.

The term CEO, or Chief Executive Officer, originated in the United States in the mid-20th century. It became more widely used as corporations grew in size and complexity, requiring a single individual to oversee the entire operation. The role of the CEO has evolved over time, reflecting changes in corporate governance and management practices.

See also: CEOs.