Summary based on the article “What Really Sets the Best CEOs Apart? Insights from the Top and Bottom 10%” published by Peter Berry Consultancy.
What makes a top-performing CEO and what sets them apart from those in similar roles?
Drawing on Hogan 360 data from over 1,000 CEOs and 29,000 managers, Peter Berry Consultancy reveals what truly distinguishes the best leaders from the rest.
Vision, inspiration, and people skills: the traits of the top 10%
The CEOs in the top 10% share five standout strengths:
- Visionary and strategic thinking
- Motivating and inspiring others
- Building effective relationships
- Strong leadership skills
- A positive, enthusiastic attitude
In contrast, the bottom 10% struggle in precisely these areas. For example, "motivates and inspires others" is ranked near the top by high-performing CEOs, but drops to 25th for those at the bottom. This clear divide underscores the importance of strategy, connection, and communication at the executive level.
CEOs vs. managers: same level, different game
The data also highlights a consistent pattern:
- Top managers excel in execution, technical skills, and operational delivery.
- Top CEOs lead with strategy, influence, and people-focused leadership.
While both groups are critical, their strengths reflect different mandates—execution vs. vision.
The Core5 Model: a blueprint for effective leadership
Based on these findings, PBC developed the Core5 Leadership Model, a framework that identifies the competencies driving leadership excellence:
- Credibility (integrity, accountability)
- Emotional intelligence (resilience, empathy, managing relationships)
- Achievement focus (goal-setting, drive for results)
- Strategic (innovation, long-term planning)
- Inspiring (motivation, engagement, team building)
This model bridges "getting along" and "getting ahead" and serves as a practical guide for developing current and future leaders.
Key insight: great CEOs are developed, not just discovered
As Dr. Robert Hogan puts it:
“Personality drives leadership, leadership drives organisational performance, and who is in charge matters greatly.”
PBC’s conclusion? Great CEOs aren’t just born with the right traits—they’re supported by development, feedback, and a clear understanding of what effective leadership really looks like.
Read the full article by Peter Berry Consultancy
Summary based on the article “What Really Sets the Best CEOs Apart? Insights from the Top and Bottom 10%” published by Peter Berry Consultancy.