The chief operating officer is the second in command and is often the one who implements the CEO's vision. The CSO is responsible for developing and implementing the company's long-term strategy, including identifying new business opportunities, analyzing market trends, and assessing potential risks. The typical CSO or senior strategy executive is not a simple strategist, but rather carries out long-term planning in relatively isolation. Most CSOs consider themselves to be the first to act, with the mandate, credentials, and a desire to act and advise.
They are experienced executives with a strong strategic orientation who have generally held many operational roles before taking office. The chief operating officer usually has more scope of work than an executive vice president. However, the executive vice president generally has more power and responsibility than a chief operating officer. That's why an executive vice president is higher than a chief operating officer.
A chief strategy officer (CSO) is a C-level executive tasked with helping to formulate, facilitate, and communicate an organization's strategic initiatives and future goals.
