C-level executives earn their place by becoming experts in their field. They often have a decade or more of experience and several degrees to demonstrate their expertise. A wide range of careers fall under top management, making it difficult to identify the exact departments or units in which these executives work. After extensive research, which included dozens of interviews with high-level executives and a survey of 350 high-potential leaders from all sectors, I have identified four main paths to reach top management, as well as the characteristics of executives who have successfully followed those paths.
C-level management, also known as C-suite, includes high-level management positions in a company. These executives are responsible for making key strategic decisions that affect the company as a whole. There are several job titles within senior management, and each one has its own role to play in the company.
