2021
Working Paper
HBS Working Paper Series

The Demand for Executive Skills

By: Stephen Hansen, Raffaella Sadun, Tejas Ramdas and Joseph B. Fuller

Format:Print
| Language:English

Abstract

We use a unique corpus of job descriptions for C-suite positions to document skills requirements in top managerial occupations across a large sample of firms. A novel algorithm maps the text of each executive search into six separate skill clusters reflecting cognitive, interpersonal, and operational dimensions. The data show an increasing relevance of social skills in top managerial occupations, and a greater emphasis on social skills in larger and more information intensive organizations. The results suggest the need for training, search, and governance mechanisms able to facilitate the match between firms and top executives along multiple and imperfectly observable skills.

Keywords

C-Suite; Jobs and Positions; Competency and Skills; Management Skills; Job Search; Job Design and Levels

Citation

Hansen, Stephen, Raffaella Sadun, Tejas Ramdas, and Joseph B. Fuller. "The Demand for Executive Skills." Harvard Business School Working Paper, No. 21-133, June 2021.