Key considerations when creating an Executive CV

An Executive CV showcases your leadership capabilities, accomplishments and suitability for high-level roles. Therefore, it's essential to invest time and effort into creating a compelling and tailored CV that effectively communicates your value proposition to prospective organisations in a competitive landscape.

Your CV reflects your personal brand and needs to create the ultimate first impression when making applications.

Below are key sections and considerations when creating or updating an Executive CV:

• Contact information: Contact details to include name, phone number and email. Include a customised LinkedIn URL to drive traffic to your profile and recommendations.
• Professional Summary / Profile: This short career summary should be tailored to the role you're targeting. Include key words and areas of expertise highlighting what you can offer and the value you bring.
• Areas of Expertise & Keywords: Consider executive level keywords to include that reflect your executive areas of expertise and requirements from a job description.
• Professional Experience: Ensure your CV highlights your successes and the impact you've had on previous organisations. This may include revenue growth, market expansion, business transformation. Where possible include tangible results.
• Education / Qualifications: Detail academic qualifications and relevant certifications. Executive CVs often include higher education or professional training & certifications if they are relevant to the role.
• Professional Affiliations: Include memberships to industry associations to demonstrate continued professional development.

Executive CV Formats

There are a selection of CV formats that you may wish to consider during your executive career transition including:

• Chronological CV – A CV written in reverse chronological order with your most recent professional experience. Ideal if you are looking to stay in a similar role or industry.
• Functional CV – A CV that focuses on areas of expertise and demonstrates the breadth of your experience, regardless of when it was obtained. A popular choice for consultancy and interim management.
• One Page Bio – A CV that summarises your experience on one page. Ideal to share with your network or recruiters looking for a brief introduction of who you are and your notable achievements.
• Non-Executive Director CV – If you are looking to secure non-executive roles, this CV format is similar to an Executive CV, however the layout is slightly different. There is a greater emphasis on your board and NED experience on Page One.

Your Executive CV is a personal document, and only you can determine the right format for you. Listen to feedback, as employers and recruiters will have their preferred formats. Regardless of format, it is essential to customise and tailor each application you make.