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Useful experience for managing directors/chief executives includes:

• business and senior management experience
• corporate governance experience
• developing and implementing strategic business plans.

Managing directors/chief executives may do some or all of the following:

• direct and manage organisations and their business strategies, operations, plans and policies 
• manage risks to the organisation and consult with management staff on issues
• ensure the organisation complies with relevant laws
• report regularly to stakeholders, often through the board of directors
• represent the organisation at conferences and official occasions.

Experience improves managing directors/chief executives job chances

Managing directors/chief executives with managerial and relevant sector experience have the best chance of employment. A proven record of success at a senior management level in a related industry is also useful.

According to the Census, 54,480 managing directors/chief executives worked in New Zealand in 2018.

Private and public sector opportunities for managing directors/chief executives

Opportunities for private sector managing director/chief executive roles are highest in Auckland and other major cities. Opportunities for public sector chief executive roles are highest in Wellington.

Types of employers varied

Managing directors/chief executives usually work in the head office of medium to large organisations.

Managing directors/chief executives may work for:

• government organisations
• private businesses
• commercial companies
• not-for-profit organisations.

Institute of Directors in New Zealand

0800 846 369 - mail@iod.org.nz - www.iod.org.nz

Institute of Management New Zealand (IMNZ)

0508 225 546 - hello@imnz.co.nz - www.imnz.co.nz

Managing directors/chief executives may progress to set up their own business, or move into an executive chairperson or board of director role. They may also move into local or national politics.

Managing directors/chief executives need to be:

• able to lead and motivate others
• able to multitask and delegate
• skilled at planning and organising
• skilled at problem solving and decision making
• good at communicating
• positive and adaptable
• able to work well under pressure.