The person generally considered to be directly under the CEO is the Chief Operations Officer (COO).
Understanding the COO's Role
The reference material defines the COO's function clearly. They are the second-in-command. Their main responsibility is to execute the CEO's vision and business plan.
- Second-in-Command: The COO is the CEO's right-hand person, taking on significant responsibilities.
- Execution of Vision: They translate the CEO's high-level strategy into actionable plans.
- Operational Oversight: The COO manages day-to-day operations, ensuring all teams work towards the company's goals.
Organizational Structure Example
Here's a simplified organizational structure:
| Position | Reports To | Responsibilities |
|---|---|---|
| CEO | Board of Directors | Overall strategic direction, company vision, and major decisions. |
| COO | CEO | Oversees daily operations, implements the CEO's strategies, and manages various departments to ensure they are aligned with the company's objectives. |
| Department Heads (e.g., Marketing, Sales, Engineering) | COO | Responsible for the performance of their respective departments, reporting progress and challenges to the COO. |
Hierarchy and Reporting
While the COO is typically next in command, other executives might also report directly to the CEO, depending on the company's size and structure. For example, the CFO (Chief Financial Officer) or the CTO (Chief Technology Officer) may report directly to the CEO in some organizations.
