Leadership career path
5 roles in leadership, ordered from entry level to executive. Each guide covers what the role owns, the skills employers screen for, and what the next step looks like.
The ladder
Progression is rarely strictly linear, but this is the common shape of a leadership career.
Team Lead
The Team Lead is a hands-on leader who manages a small to mid-sized team, balancing individual contribution with people management responsibilities. They are responsible for day-to-day …
General Manager
The General Manager owns the full profit-and-loss responsibility for a business unit, product line, or geographic region. They operate as a mini-CEO, balancing revenue growth, cost …
Department Head
The Department Head leads a functional department, setting direction, managing budgets, and developing talent to deliver on organizational goals. They serve as the senior-most leader within …
Chief Executive Officer
The CEO sets the overall vision, strategy, and direction for the organization, serving as the primary leader accountable to the board and stakeholders. They are responsible …
Chief Operating Officer
The COO is responsible for translating the company's strategy into operational execution, overseeing day-to-day business operations, and ensuring cross-functional alignment. They optimize processes, drive operational efficiency, …