We hear the term “CXO” often, and usually only in corporate conversations.
Traditionally, a “CXO” refers to anyone holding a “
Chief X Officer” title—CEO, COO, CFO, CMO, CHRO, etc. It’s shorthand for top-tier executives in the “C-Suite” of corporate America.
But here’s the thing. You don’t have to be inside a Fortune 500 company to operate at a CXO level. And if you’re like me—a multi-sector leader, a “Girl Friday” who’s morphed across roles, industries, and missions—you might already function as a CXO and not even know it.
Here’s my own example –
Over the course of my career, I’ve served two U.S. Presidents, advised Senate leadership (both a U.S. Senator and a California State Senator), influenced appointments to national public policy positions, launched public-private partnerships, led a Chamber of Commerce through a global pandemic, created women’s empowerment and youth mental health initiatives, and raised millions for candidates and causes I believe in.
Throughout 20+ years of my career, I’ve never held a corporate CXO title—but I’ve operated with CXO-level strategy, responsibility, adaptability, and vision every step of the way.
Here’s what often gets overlooked. Impact is the new metric and the truest measure of executive leadership today—not just your place in the hierarchy or headcount.
So, as you evaluate your next job, career move, or clients you want to work with, take a minute to evaluate yourself –
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Do you think like a CEO? – Setting vision, driving outcomes, and leading through complex situations.
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Do you act like a COO? – Building operational bridges and rallying teams to execution.
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Do you move like a CMO? – Can you tell compelling stories that are relatable, shape perception and shift policy?
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Do you perform like a CDO – Driving innovation, inclusion, and sustainable growth across business sectors and in the non-profit world.
If that sounds like you—regardless of your title—you’re already leading at a CXO level.
As a CXO, I am a mission-first executive leader who adapts, integrates, and empowers across multiple landscapes: public policy, community building, nonprofit strategy, and advocacy.
I don’t just wear one hat—I lead through cross-functional disciplines to create results, leading with purpose.
If you own your own executive identity, take the time to let people know who you are and what you bring to the table – even if it doesn’t come with a conventional title.
You don’t need a corner office to lead with conviction, clarity, and purpose. Do it on your own terms and rise, rather than sinking.
✨P.S. Titles don’t define leaders—Impact does. Let’s connect if you’re a fellow purpose-driven CXO in action. Check out my company at AltamontStrategies.com.