Chief operating officers (COOs) are a critical part of an organization’s executive leadership, helping ensure that day-to-day operations and long-term objectives are aligned. COOs may be found across sectors and business types, and the role can be a stepping stone to higher positions. McKinsey & Co. found that 40% of CEOs in 2024 had previously served in a COO or president role.
Becoming a COO can be an enticing career option, although aspiring executives generally need substantial experience and education. Individuals who are wondering how to become a COO should explore the career path options, including the benefits of completing an advanced education program such as a Master of Business Administration (MBA).
What Does a COO Do?
A COO, who may hold a title such as executive vice president of operations or operations director, is one of the highest-ranking members in an organization’s executive team. They’re responsible for translating company strategy into effective day-to-day execution.
A COO’s duties can vary widely based on the employer, but they may include:
- Overseeing daily business operations
- Collaborating with executive leadership
- Managing departmental performance
- Developing operational strategies
- Leading technology or improvement initiatives
- Supporting growth, expansion, and change management efforts
- Ensuring adherence to compliance requirements
COOs work for businesses of all sizes across industries, from consumer goods and healthcare to technology.
Steps to Become a COO
For those interested in becoming a COO, the first step is typically earning a relevant degree, followed by gaining experience and developing necessary skills.
Step 1: Earn an Education
COOs typically need at least a bachelor’s degree, often in a field such as business or public administration, or in an industry-related field such as engineering. Many professionals focused on operational leadership pursue a master’s degree to further develop their expertise—some employers prefer or even require an advanced degree.
An MBA is one of the most popular degree programs for aspiring COOs. These programs often cover areas such as management principles, organizational and strategic leadership, business analytics, and financial fundamentals. They also provide opportunities for real-world experience through capstone projects.
Step 2: Gain Work Experience
The COO role isn’t an entry-level position—it requires professionals to make decisions based on a deep understanding of their business and industry. This depth of understanding comes from hands-on experience; as such, it may take a decade or more of increasing responsibility before an individual is ready for the role.
Aspiring COOs work their way up, often starting in analytical or operations roles such as business process analyst or operations analyst. As they develop, they may add people and project management responsibilities through mid- and senior-level management positions, before ultimately moving into the COO role.
These years of experience help professionals develop the operational knowledge, leadership skills, and strategic perspective needed to succeed as a COO.
Step 3: Develop Key Skills
A professional’s education and experience will help them acquire and develop the combination of operational expertise and leadership skills needed for the COO role. These skills typically include:
- Business acumen
- Industry knowledge
- Financial expertise
- Communication skills
- Change management
- Team management
- Project management
- Data analysis
- Decision-making
- Problem-solving
- Strategic thinking
The COO role often requires professionals to apply several skills simultaneously. Success in the role often depends on the ability to evaluate information, coordinate across departments, and make decisions that balance short-term operational needs with long-term organizational priorities.
COO Salary and Job Growth
Becoming a COO can lead to a lucrative career. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), top executives earned a median annual salary of $105,350 as of 2024. This is significantly higher than the median salary for all careers. However, the BLS notes that salaries vary significantly and may be affected by industry and organization size.
The BLS projects 4% job growth for top executives between 2024 and 2034, compared with a 3% average for all occupations. The openings are expected to be the result of attrition and retirement among existing executives, as well as an organizational focus on operational efficiency.
Make the Next Career Step Toward an Executive Role
Becoming a COO typically requires a combination of industry experience, leadership ability, and business knowledge. Bryant University offers multiple MBA programs that can help aspiring COOs develop that foundation.
Bryant’s flexible programs include an Online MBA program that can be completed in 12 to 24 months and a Mini-MBA Graduate Certificate program that can be completed in six to nine months. With an asynchronous structure and multiple start dates throughout the year, these online programs can help students balance their education and career responsibilities. The Online MBA provides a foundation in management, leadership, finance, and analytics, while offering concentrations in strategic leadership and applied artificial intelligence (AI). The Mini-MBA program introduces professionals to management, leadership, economics, and other key business disciplines.
For those who prefer in-person learning, Bryant offers a part-time Two-Year MBA program and a full-time One-Year MBA option. These programs provide advanced training in leadership, strategy, finance, and organizational management while offering hands-on learning opportunities through business practicums and global immersion experiences.
Discover your potential in executive leadership at Bryant.