How to Write an Executive CV + Example & Tips for 2025

Every position inside a company has to be filled via job search, and this includes executive positions. If you’re looking to become a senior executive, then you need to know how to make the most of a CV just like anyone else. Here’s how you can create a professional CV for this high-level position.

Understanding who uses an executive CV can help you understand what you should talk about. Here are a few of the jobs in the “C-suite” that would use an executive CV.

• Chief Executive Officer (CEO)
• Chief Information Officer (CIO)
• Chief Operating Officer (COO)
• Chief Financial Officer (CFO)
• Chief Marketing Officer (CMO)
• Chief Technology Officer (CTO)

These jobs require different competencies and certifications, but they all tend to be part of a board of directors and have a huge impact on how a company functions on a day-to-day basis.

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Your executive CV structure will depend partially on what CV format you use. Most executive CV examples use the chronological format, which emphasises work history, but you may also use the functional format, which showcases skills, or the combination format, which highlights both. Regardless of the format, you’ll be using the same sections, just with different structures.

Header

Your header goes at the top of the CV and includes your full name, contact information including phone number and email address, and any related links such as your LinkedIn profile URL.

Professional summary and career objective

A CV professional summary is an encapsulation of your skills and work history. For an executive job, this typically means detailing some top metrics you’ve achieved, how many years of experience you have and what you’ve done in the past.

A career objective isn’t normally used for an executive-level CV, but for more entry-level applicants. A career objective is a professional summary with the addition of goals and a statement of what you want to accomplish with your CV.

Skills

Your skills section needs significant management skills. After all, as a member of the so-called “C-suite,” you’re essentially going to be managing people. Executive recruiters want to know that you have these skills and that you can transfer them to a new position and a new company.

In this section, highlight skills and qualifications that show you have the know-how to direct your company’s development, which could include high-level skills like budgeting, business development and conflict resolution.

Work History

Every executive should display an extensive work history. Although you might not have a history that’s exclusively in the executive field, you should include work experience revolving around project and product management, and initiatives you’ve taken in previous jobs that resulted in success. Make sure you feature experiences that connect with the needs of the company you’re applying to.

Education

Not every executive position needs an extensive education section, but don’t forget to include your college or university information (name, location, major) and any related certifications, credentials and degrees. and credentials.

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Do:

• Use bullet points and concise phrases to list your skills and work history. Bullet points make it easier for a hiring manager to scan through your CV and find information that fit their needs.
• Look over your CV before you submit it. A review by a trusted colleague or even a professional CV writing service can ensure your CV is error-free and looks as professional as possible.
• Include your LinkedIn profile on your CV. This way, a hiring manager can look into your LinkedIn online presence to learn more about you.

Don’t:

• Include every job you’ve ever had. As an executive job seeker, you probably have decades of experience, and you don’t need all of it – just the more recent, most relevant jobs that apply to your job search.
• Use CV templates that don’t fit the company you’re applying for. Research the company and get a feel for its culture, then use a CV template that reflects that. For example, an innovative company will probably favour a CV that has a bit more colour and flair.
• Be overly dry in your CV presentation. Your CV should reflect your personal brand, and while it should be professional, it should also reflect who you are.

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