What does a chief of staff do?
A chief of staff represents an executive, helping them drive initiatives and oversee operations. They often lead conversations between the executive and clients, employees and external partners, determining who needs to speak with the executive directly. Chiefs of staff also analyze operations to find opportunities for improvement.
While the chief of staff supports the executive, they’re also an influential advisor. They may consult on business decisions, provide data and coordinate with other senior leaders, such as the chief financial officer (CFO) or chief operating officer (COO).
Chief of staff skills and qualifications
Strong candidates often demonstrate administrative, operational and advisory skills, which may be important for success in this role. Problem-solving and critical thinking skills are also valuable competencies that set top candidates apart.
Skills commonly listed in chief of staff job description templates include:
- Strategic planning, prioritization and decision-making abilities
- In-depth knowledge of company operations and personnel matters, including talent and performance management
- Ability to develop trusting relationships with internal and external partners
- Analytical and critical-thinking skills for solving problems and advising the executive
- Strong written and verbal communication skills
- Project management, organizational and prioritization skills
- Ability to lead, coordinate and support executives and employees
- Familiarity with confidentiality standards and practices
Chief of staff experience requirements
If you’re using skills-based hiring for a chief of staff position, you might prioritize project management, problem-solving and communication skills, which candidates can develop in various roles. For example, you could consider candidates with leadership or administration experience from executive assistant or operational manager roles, even if they were in different industries.
Other job titles like project manager or lead coordinator may provide candidates with organization and scheduling skills.
Chief of staff education and training requirements
The chief of staff position doesn’t require formal education, although your needs may depend on the industry. You might instead screen candidates based on relevant skills, such as executive support, strategic planning and decision-making.
Many useful skills for a chief of staff can be learned on the job or through online programs like Coursera. You can also search for candidates with a Project Management Professional (PMP) designation or those who have completed Harvard University’s Chief of Staff Executive Education Programme.
Chief of staff salary expectations
According to Indeed Salaries, the average salary for a chief of staff is $137,881 per year. Salary may vary based on location, candidate experience or business size.
Job description samples for similar positions
If this chief of staff job description doesn’t align with your needs, check out these other sample job descriptions for similar positions:
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