Scope and influence of the CCO

Against the backdrop of a dramatically changing business landscape, the role of the top corporate communications officer is growing both in scope and influence, according to a new survey. Talent-management specialists the Korn/Ferry Institute have published the findings of their survey of Fortune 500 chief communication officers: the results touch on roles and responsibilities, compensation, reporting structure, challenges and much more, making this a valuable insight into the state of the art of communication officers today as well as a sign of the shifting role of the chief communication officer. For example, nearly all of those taking part in the survey were responsible for corporate communications. 87 per cent were responsible for corporate reputation, but according to Korn/Ferry this is a new area for about 20 per cent of them. Beyond the responsibilities outlines below right, respondents also listed media and crisis communications, employee/internal communications, and select financial communications. Looking ahead, the survey also poses questions about the changes to the chief communicator’s role. Executives were asked to identify what issues are commanding more effort and attention than in recent years. In addition, executives also mentioned government and regulatory issues, innovation and change management, employee feedback, limited resources, and creating a more global approach to everything. Not only are top communicators expected to take a major role in defining the narrative of the organisation, they area also challenged to become better leaders. Taken from Korn/Ferry Institute, The Chief Communications Officer 2012.

Facts & Figures Archive

2019

2018

2017

2016

2015

2014

2013

2012

2011