My Colorado Journey
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Business Operations

CEO, CIO, CFO, COO, CMO, CTO

Determine and formulate policies and provide overall direction of companies or private and public sector organizations within guidelines set up by a board of directors or similar governing body. Plan, direct, or coordinate operational activities at the highest level of management with the help of subordinate executives and staff managers.

Annual openings

335

Median wage

$213,370

Typical education

A minimum of a Bachelor's degree plus work experience

Growth 2026–2032

+14%

Median wage source: Colorado BLS OEWS (2025).

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Career requirements

What does this career require?

Explore education, required qualifications, voluntary credentials and employer preferences for this role. Check the details to see which apply.

Typical education

A minimum of a Bachelor's degree plus work experience

Credential requirement

No certification is required or expected for this job.

Work experience

A considerable amount of work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is needed for these occupations. Work experience as a Manager or higher is highly valued.

Is this work a fit?

What the work actually feels like

How people in this career tend to spend their time, the interests it draws on, and a look at a typical day.

Work style

The type of work can vary by job and employer.

  • With childrenNo
  • On a computerMay vary
  • OutdoorsNo
  • With your handsNo

Interests it draws on

  • Entrepreneurism
  • Entrepreneurship

Automation exposure

Low exposure

Tasks here lean on judgement and people skills that are hard to automate.

A typical day

  1. Direct or coordinate an organization's financial or budget activities to fund operations, maximize investments, or increase efficiency.
  2. Confer with board members, organization officials, or staff members to discuss issues, coordinate activities, or resolve problems.
  3. Prepare budgets for approval, including those for funding or implementation of programs.
  4. Prepare or present reports concerning activities, expenses, budgets, government statutes or rulings, or other items affecting businesses or program services.
  5. Interpret and explain policies, rules, regulations, or laws to organizations, government or corporate officials, or individuals.
  6. Review reports submitted by staff members to recommend approval or to suggest changes.
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