Insights by Zoie Teytelbaum, Managing Director, Corporate Services
As companies grow, strong C-suite leadership outside of the traditional CEO and CFO roles becomes essential. But when expanding the executive team, which role should you prioritize? Chief Administrative Officer (CAO), Chief People Officer (CPO), or Chief Human Resources Officer (CHRO)? The right choice depends on the specific needs and strategic direction of your organization.
The Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) – Driving Operational Efficiency and Strategy
CAO Responsibilities:
- Oversees administrative functions to ensure smooth business operations.
- Manages internal processes, including management of administrative staff, facilities, and IT.
- Depending on company size, the CAO might also be a point person for Human Resources.
- Works closely with the CEO to align operations with company goals.
When to Hire a CAO:
- If your company is scaling rapidly.
- If you’re facing operational inefficiencies.
- If you need oversight and expertise to streamline processes.
The Chief People Officer (CPO) – Shaping Organizational Culture and Employee Engagement
CPO Responsibilities:
- Enhances company culture and drives employee engagement.
- Aligns talent strategies with overall business goals.
- Focuses on shaping the broader employee experience.
- Ensures the company adapts to a changing workforce.
When to Hire a CPO:
- If you’re prioritizing people strategy and innovation in HR.
- If fostering a positive, productive company culture is key.
- If your company needs to adapt to changing workforce trends.
The Chief Human Resources Officer (CHRO) – Championing HR Strategy and Talent Development
CHRO Responsibilities:
- Partner with C-Suite on strategic initiatives.
- Leads human capital strategy and HR management.
- Oversees recruitment, talent management, and employee relations.
- Develops and implements compensation and benefits strategies.
- Ensures HR policies align with business objectives.
When to Hire a CHRO:
- If talent acquisition and retention are top priorities.
- If your company needs a stronger, more structured HR framework.
- If aligning HR strategy with business goals is essential.
Which Role Should Your Organization Prioritize?
The decision between hiring a CAO, CPO, or CHRO depends on your company’s current challenges and long-term objectives. If operational efficiency is your priority, a CAO could be the solution. If employee engagement and organizational culture are key, the CPO might be the best fit. On the other hand, if talent management and strategic HR development are top of mind, a CHRO would be the right addition to your leadership team.
At Landing Point, we specialize in placing transformative C-suite leaders. We advise clients on the nuances of each of these roles frequently, so whether you’re hiring or exploring leadership opportunities, our Corporate Services team is here to help!