In the automotive industry, the office of chief executive holds a great deal of esteem. Chief executives, after all, are the leaders of major international firms and largely sovereign in directives meant to bring the company higher profits and a stronger public profile. In addition to their leadership within the company, chief executives are also invaluable to public relations campaigns to stockholders and consumers. Chief executives become synonymous with an automotive brand name, which makes them an integral part of the success or failure of an automotive firm.

Many automotive professionals look to the chief executive position as the ultimate achievement in their field. Managers, supervisor, vice presidents, and other experienced professionals feel that they are only a few steps away from taking over the chief executive spot. Younger professionals see chief executive roles as the culmination of all of their hard work over decades in the industry. While both groups of professionals are aiming for the chief executive position, it takes a combination of experience and skill to achieve such a lofty role. Chief executives make a very high salary, receive profit sharing, and many perks that are given to people in positions of authority. A few simple steps early in an automotive professional’s career can ensure an opportunity at the executive office later in their career.

Young professionals need to become the most knowledgeable person in their department about the automotive industry. Professionals need to immerse themselves in industry news, publications, and analysis in order to become more conversant in the automotive industry. This knowledge has a two fold effect. Auto professionals will understand their role better by understanding the entire industry. As well, in meetings and conversations with managers, young professionals can show their ambition to rise high in the automotive ranks.

As well, young professionals need to be willing to take on additional responsibilities when offered. Auto design professionals who want executive positions need to take on project management roles. Production engineers who are offered the chance to provide input to the board of directors need to relish in that opportunity. Taking advantage of leaderships opportunities is vital to rising within the automotive industry.

Finally, automotive professionals need to build connections within the firm. Auto workers who build a network of colleagues and references within the firm and the industry can mobilise this network on behalf of their candidacy for advanced positions. A survey of chief executives in the UK would find that knowing people throughout their firm helped them leverage their skills and experience to land their dream job.