VWA Role Guides - Chief of Staff

What Does a Chief of Staff Do? A Practical Overview of the Role

The Chief of Staff role is a highly strategic position that sits close to senior leadership and supports the effective running of an organisation. While still relatively uncommon in some sectors, the role is increasingly used by organisations looking to improve alignment, execution and decision making at leadership level.

For candidates who enjoy working across strategy, operations and leadership support, the Chief of Staff role offers significant influence and exposure.

What is the role of a Chief of Staff?

A Chief of Staff acts as a trusted partner to senior leaders, often reporting directly to a CEO or executive team member. The role is designed to support organisational effectiveness by driving key initiatives, improving communication and ensuring priorities are aligned across the business.

The scope of the role can vary widely depending on the organisation, making clarity and adaptability essential.

What does a Chief of Staff do day to day?

Day to day responsibilities differ significantly by organisation, but commonly include:

• Supporting senior leaders with strategic planning and execution
• Managing cross functional projects and initiatives
• Acting as a link between leadership and wider teams
• Preparing briefings, presentations and communications
• Management of staff, often managing special projects, administrative staff, or acting as a liaison between department heads
• Tracking priorities and ensuring accountability
• Supporting decision making and problem solving

The role often combines strategic thinking with hands on delivery.

Which industries employ Chiefs of Staff?

Chief of Staff roles are found across a growing range of sectors, including:

• Professional services and consulting
• Technology and high growth businesses
• Investment and financial services
• Entrepreneurial and founder led organisations
• Private family offices

The role is particularly common in fast growing or complex organisations.

What skills are needed to succeed as a Chief of Staff?

Successful Chiefs of Staff typically demonstrate:

• Strong strategic and analytical thinking
• Excellent communication and influencing skills
• Ability to manage ambiguity and change
• Sound judgement and discretion
• Confidence working at senior leadership level

Resilience and adaptability are particularly important in this role.

How do people usually move into Chief of Staff roles?

Many Chiefs of Staff come from consulting, operations, strategy or senior business support backgrounds. Others transition from roles such as Executive Assistant, Operations Manager or Senior Analyst.

Demonstrating breadth of experience and strong stakeholder management is often key.

What are the career progression opportunities?

Chief of Staff roles can lead to progression into:

• Senior operational or strategy leadership roles
• General management positions
• Executive leadership roles

For some, the role is a long term position; for others, it is a stepping stone to broader leadership responsibility.

Chief of Staff FAQs

Is a Chief of Staff role the same as an Executive Assistant role?
No. While both roles support senior leaders, Chief of Staff roles are typically more strategic and operational in nature.

Is the role suitable for long term career progression?
Yes. Many professionals use the role as a pathway into senior leadership positions.

Does the role require sector specific experience?
This depends on the organisation. Transferable skills and leadership capability are often prioritised.

Is the role clearly defined?
The scope can vary widely, which is why clarity and communication are important at the outset.

What makes a strong Chief of Staff candidate?
Strong judgement, adaptability, communication skills and the ability to operate effectively at senior level are key.

How VWA supports Chief of Staff candidates

Chief of Staff roles are highly individual and closely tied to leadership style and organisational context. At VWA, we focus on understanding the expectations, scope and working dynamics of each role before making introductions.

We support candidates by offering clear insight into how Chief of Staff roles differ across organisations and helping them assess whether an opportunity aligns with their experience, strengths and career goals.

If you are considering a Chief of Staff role and would value a thoughtful, confidential discussion, do feel free to get in touch.

Other VWA Role Guides

Please do take a look at all the other VWA Role Guides currently available and watch this space for future ones!

Roadshow Coordinator Role Guide | VWA Recruitment Insights - VWA

HR Director Role Guide | VWA Recruitment Insights - VWA

Executive Assistant Role Guide | VWA Recruitment Insights - VWA

Analyst Role Guide | VWA Recruitment Insights - VWA

Receptionist Role Guide | VWA Recruitment Insights - VWA

Research Associate Role Guide | VWA Recruitment Insights - VWA

Finally for Hiring Managers:

If you’re looking to hire a Chief of Staff, here’s how operations recruiters such as VWA can help you find the right fit for your organisation. Learn more here: Hiring a Chief of Staff with Operations Recruiters - VWA