Top executives devise strategies and policies to ensure that an organization meets its goals. They plan, direct, and coordinate operational activities of companies and organizations.

Top executives work in nearly every industry. They work for large and small businesses, ranging from companies in which they are the only employee to firms with thousands of employees. Top executives often work many hours, including evenings and weekends. In 2014, about half worked more than 40 hours per week. Travel is common, particularly for chief executives.

Although education and training requirements vary widely by position and industry, many top executives have at least a bachelor's degree and a considerable amount of work experience.

The median annual wage for top executives was $102,690 in May 2015.

Employment of top executives is projected to grow 6 percent from 2014 to 2024, about as fast as the average for all occupations. Employment growth will vary by industry and is largely dependent on the rate of industry growth. Top executives are expected to face very strong competition for jobs.

Explore resources for employment and wages by state and area for top executives.

Compare the job duties, education, job growth, and pay of top executives with similar occupations.

Learn more about top executives by visiting additional resources, including O*NET, a source on key characteristics of workers and occupations.