Executive Resume Examples and Writing Tips

Ready for a more professional Executive resume? Use our resume examples, resume samples, and writing tips to land your next leadership position.

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Table of Contents

  1. Executive Resume Example
  2. Executive Resume Sample
  3. Positions That Use an Executive Resume
  4. The Structure of an Executive Resume
  5. Do’s and Don’ts for an Executive Resume
  6. FAQ: Executive Resumes

Executive Resume Example

Executive Resume Example
Executive Resume ExampleExecutive Resume Example
Executive Resume Example
Executive Resume Example

Executive Resume Sample

Every position inside a company has to be filled via job search, and this includes executive positions. If you’re looking to become a senior executive, then you need to know how to make the most of a resume just like anyone else. Here’s how you can create a professional resume for this high-level position.

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Positions That Use an Executive Resume

Understanding who uses an executive resume can help you understand what you should talk about. Here are a few of the jobs in the “C-suite” that would utilize an executive resume.

  • Chief Executive Officer (CEO)
  • Chief Information Officer (CIO)
  • Chief Operating Officer (COO)
  • Chief Financial Officer (CFO)
  • Chief Marketing Officer (CMO)
  • Chief Technology Officer (CTO)

These jobs require different competencies and certifications, but they all tend to be part of a board of directors and have a huge impact on how a company functions on a day-to-day basis.


The Structure of an Executive Resume

Your executive resume structure will depend partially on what resume format you use. Most executive resume examples utilize the chronological format, which emphasizes work history, but you may also use the functional format, which emphasizes skills, or the combination format, which emphasizes both. Regardless of the format, you’ll be using the same sections, just with different structures.
 
Header
 
Your header goes at the top of the resume and includes your full name, contact information including phone number and email address, and any related links such as your LinkedIn profile URL.
 
Resume Summary
 
A resume summary is an encapsulation of your skills and work history. For an executive job, this typically means detailing some top metrics you’ve achieved, how many years of experience you have, and what you’ve done in the past.
 
Skills
 
Your skills section needs significant management skills. After all, as a member of the so-called “C-suite,” you’re essentially going to be managing people. Executive recruiters want to know that you have these skills and that you can transfer them to a new position and a new company. In this section, highlight skills and qualifications that show you have the know-how to direct your company’s development, which could include high-level skills like budgeting, business development and conflict resolution.
 
Work History
 
Every executive should display an extensive work history. Although you might not have a history that’s exclusively in the executive field, you should include work experience revolving around project and product management, and initiatives you’ve taken in previous jobs that resulted in success. Make sure you feature experiences that connect with the needs of the company you’re applying to.
 
Education
 
Not every executive position needs an extensive education section, but don’t forget to include your college information (name, location, major) and any related certifications and credentials.

Do’s and Don’ts for an Executive Resume

Do:

  • Use bullet points and concise phrases to list your skills and work history. Bullet points make it easier for a hiring manager to scan through your resume and find information that fit their needs.
  • Look over your resume before you submit it. A review by a trusted colleague or even a professional resume writing service can ensure your resume is error-free and looks as professional as possible.
  • Include your LinkedIn profile on your resume. This way, a hiring manager can look into your LinkedIn online presence to learn more about you.

Don’t:

  • Include every job you’ve ever had. As an executive job seeker, you probably have decades of experience, and you don’t need all of it – just the more recent, most relevant jobs that apply to your job search.
  • Use resume templates that don’t fit the company you’re applying for. Research the company and get a feel for its culture, then use a resume template that reflects that. For example, an innovative company will probably favor a resume that has a bit more color and flair.
  • Be overly dry in your resume presentation. Your resume should reflect your personal brand, and while it should be professional, it should also reflect who you are.


FAQ: Executive Resumes

Q: Do I need to include a cover letter for an executive application?

You should include an executive cover letter alongside your resume. Most of the time, for a position of this importance, a cover letter will be required. However, even if it isn’t required, a cover letter gives you a chance to showcase your personality and further discuss how you fit the job.

Q: How can I write an executive resume without a lot of experience?

Although you need a lot of experience for an executive position, it’s not restricted solely to executive experience. If this is the first C-suite job you’re applying for, then make sure you showcase how the skills and experience you built up in previous jobs make you the right candidate for the job. Highlight your experience and achievements in jobs that align with the executive job you want, even if they’re not a perfect match.

Q: How do I change my executive resume to apply to different jobs?

Resume keywords will help you apply to different jobs while getting past applicant tracking systems (ATS) that employers use to screen out applicants that don’t meet certain criteria. Read the job description to learn what skills and requirements are most important for the specific application. Then apply this knowledge to your resume. You can also use the ResumeHelp resume builder, which then makes it easier for you to update your resume and save different versions of it for different jobs.

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