Chief executive officer
The chief executive officer leads executive management and is accountable to the board for managing the organisation and implementing its agreed strategy. The precise responsibilities depend on the organisation’s governance arrangements and delegated authority. The chief executive commonly contributes to strategy development, leads the executive team and reports performance and significant risks to the board. The board retains collective responsibility for directing and overseeing the organisation.
Worked example
The board approves expansion into a new region. The chief executive coordinates finance, staffing and operations to implement the decision and reports progress and emerging risks to the board.
Common mistake
The chief executive is not automatically the board chair and does not replace the board’s oversight responsibilities.
Where it appears in your exams
| Qualification | Exam | Relationship | Period |
|---|---|---|---|
| ACCA | BT | Supporting | September 2026–June 2027 |
| ACCA | SBL | Direct | September 2026–June 2027 |
| FIA | FBT | Supporting | September 2026–June 2027 |