Second highest rank after CEO?

Question

is that an executive officer? and if the CEO leaves, does the second highest rank replace him/her?

Answer 1

Normally, it is Chairman of the Board.  This position might actually be the highest rank before CEO.  In many companies the positions are held by the same person.  That is not considered good corporate policy.  In that case the 2nd highest might be the COO,  Chief Operating Officer.

If the CEO leaves the board of directors would select the replacement.  It might be the Chairman of the Board, if that is a separate person or it might be the COO, or it might be someone else entirely from outside of the company.

Answer 2

Each corporation differs in their corporate structure.  Others may have the directors go next after the CEO like Director of Operations, Finance Director & Marketing Director.  Usually the Operations Director relieves the CEO in some of his functions.

Learn more about the corporate structure:  http://www.entrepreneurwiz.com

Answer 3

It doesn't usually work like you are thinking (President/VP).  The CEO is usually replaced by an outsider.  Although, the CFO or COO could probably be qualified to replace him/her.  Or any number of managers, really.

Good question!

Answer 4

No he/she does.