• 61% of UK employees want to become a CEO
• Top drivers include personal challenge (58%), high salaries (49%) and overall executive responsibility (45%)
London, 2 May 2018 – Three in five (61%) UK employees* have ambitions to become a CEO, according to research by Robert Half UK.
Employees cited challenging themselves (58%) and enjoying the responsibility (45%) as major reasons for the aspirations. Salary was also a significant driver, with half (49%) of Brits being financially motivated.
Of those harbouring ambitions to become a CEO, pride played a role. A third (36%) want the role to make their families proud, whilst a quarter (26%) aim for the role because they are proud of the company they work for.
However, at the other end of the scale, employees cited stress (54%), negative work-life balance (42%) and not wanting the responsibility (33%) as reasons they have no desire to get to the top.
“As the workforce becomes more ambitious, it’s clear that money is not the sole motivator. Employees are increasingly seeking out challenges and extra responsibility to feel fulfilled,” said Matt Weston, Managing Director at Robert Half UK. “This drive to succeed, if correctly harnessed and nourished, is highly beneficial for companies. It demonstrates a motivated and engaged workforce that can have a huge impact on productivity and the bottom line.”
“Reaching the top role typically requires an educational background, varied experience in business and proven track record of success. These are all qualities that are developed throughout one’s career. As the world of work continues to evolve, ambitious professionals must show the drive and determination to evolve and learn throughout their career.”
-ENDS-
Related content:
- How to become a CEO - Becoming a great chief executive officer (CEO) is one of the ultimate goals in business and career progression. Finds out what it takes to be CEO
- Robert Half FTSE 100 CEO Tracker - Explore the commonalities of FTSE 100 CEOs today including their career paths, educational background, gender, age and nationality.
Research methodology
This study was developed by Robert Half and conducted in November 2017 by an independent research firm, surveying 1,000 employees working in an office environment in the UK. This survey is part of an international study on hiring trends and career ambitions in the modern workplace.