COO role is changing, Conference Board says.

• Author: Marshall, Jeffrey
• Position: LEADERSHIP - Report - Brief article

The number of CFOs reporting to chief operating officers (COOs) is on the wane, but the COO position isn't necessarily being eliminated but transformed, according to a report released recently by The Conference Board.

The report, The Changing Role of the COO, was based on in-depth interviews with executives from companies representing diverse industries and a literature review. Executives surveyed include heads of human resources, regional heads, COOs, CEOs, heads of business units and heads of company research.

The report finds that the need for and the definition of the COO role is determined by the relationship between the COO and CEO, including their personalities, in the context of the needs of the particular business. A risk assessment of the CEO "going it alone" and internal talent management considerations are also used for determination.

Some of those interviewed said that...