Which Path is Better for Becoming a CEO: Product Management or Operations Management?

When it comes to preparing for a Chief Executive Officer (CEO) role, aspiring leaders often wonder which background will be most advantageous. Two common paths frequently considered are product management and operations management. However, navigating the path to the C-suite is far from a straightforward process. This article explores the advantages and potential challenges of each route, offering insights to help aspirants make an informed decision.

Understanding the CEO Landscape

According to various studies and industry reports, backgrounds like engineering, sales, marketing, and operations have historically led to CEO positions. However, the path to the CEO title is deeply influenced by the size and nature of the company. For instance, a company with 100 employees might prioritize different qualities in a CEO compared to a larger, more diversified enterprise.

The Product Management Path

Product managers play a crucial role in a company’s success. They oversee the development, launch, and iteration of products, often serving as a bridge between the company’s strategy and the end-user experience. While product managers are highly valued for their technical and market acumen, they occasionally face obstacles when seeking a CEO role.

Single Function Background: Product managers are sometimes viewed as having a single-function background, which may limit their perceived breadth of skills and experience. This can make it challenging to be considered for a CEO role in established companies where a diverse skill set is preferred. Lack of Large-Scale People Management: Another common reason for disqualification is the lack of large-scale people management experience. CEOs of larger companies are expected to have comprehensive experience leading a diverse workforce, managing complex organizational structures, and overseeing significant operations.

Despite these challenges, product managers can thrive in startup or early-stage companies, especially if they are able to show strong hustle, sales, and fundraising skills. In such environments, their technical expertise and market knowledge can be highly valued, enabling them to take on leadership roles.

The Operations Management Path

Operations managers are well-positioned for the CEO role due to their hands-on experience in running various organizational functions. They understand the intricacies of company operations, including logistics, supply chain management, and process optimization. However, they also face certain obstacles in their journey to the CEO title.

Insufficient Direct Experience in Growth Functions: One significant challenge for operations managers is the lack of direct experience in growth-related functions, such as sales and marketing. CEOs of large companies are expected to have a well-rounded skill set, including the ability to drive revenue and scale the organization.

That said, operations managers have a unique advantage in terms of scalability and operational efficiency. They often have a solid understanding of how different departments work together, which can be invaluable in managing and growing a company.

Strategies for Success

To enhance their chances of becoming a CEO, individuals can adopt the following strategies:

Seek Diverse Experience: Gain experience in multiple areas of the business, including sales, marketing, and operations. This diversified skill set can help you avoid being typecast and make you a more attractive candidate for a CEO role. Pursue the Startup Route: Consider starting your own venture or joining a startup. The fast-paced and dynamic nature of startups can provide an excellent opportunity to demonstrate your leadership and entrepreneurial skills. Develop Leadership Skills: Focus on building your leadership abilities, particularly in areas such as people management and strategic planning. Acquiring these skills can significantly enhance your prospects for a CEO position. Learn from Role Models: Study the success stories of CEOs and learn from their experiences. Understand what makes successful CEOs and strive to develop similar traits and skills.

Conclusion

The journey to becoming a CEO is unique for each individual. Whether your path leads through product management or operations management, the key is to leverage your strengths, gain diverse experience, and develop the necessary skills. By doing so, you can increase your chances of achieving your leadership aspirations and landing the role of a CEO.