Prominent CEOs, recruiters share insights on rising to top job, leaving on up note

The CEO Update article, "Prominent CEOs, recruiters share insights on rising to top job, leaving on up note," includes several quotes from Russell Reynolds Associates' Stephanie Tomasso about the skill set needed to be successful in the C-suite. The following is an excerpt of the article.

Four expert panelists shared perspectives on the burdens of leadership, how to get to the C-suite and how to plan your exit.

Other panelists were: Chip Kahn, longtime CEO of the $13 million-revenue Federation of American Hospitals; Stephanie Tomasso of executive search firm Russell Reynolds; and Wendy Pangburn of executive search firm Pangburn Partners. CEO Update Managing Director Mark Graham was moderator.

Tomasso said candidates need to know what abilities they need to augment to be considered for the top job.

“It’s important to consider what skills you have in your toolbox right now,” she said. “Look at the people around you who are in CEO roles. What have they done that you feel you need to do to make yourself more well-rounded?”

Tomasso said executives in charge of one department, such as lobbying, should familiarize themselves with the operations of other departments.

“What we hear from search committees is, ‘Well, they haven’t run the finances. They haven’t done the strategic planning.’ So find ways to do that. Sit in on the finance committee meetings, take classes at ASAE to further enhance your skillset.”

To read the full article, click here.