Strategic Roles-C -V -D

Note - Information has been compiled from several credible sources. Designations may vary sometimes depending upon the organisation and industry. C Suite is a more popular and universal term, while V Suite and D Suite are less popular

The terms "C-Suite," "D-Suite," and "V-Suite" refer to different levels of senior management within an organization. These terms broadly classify the leadership roles based on their titles and the strategic roles they play in the organization's growth and operations.

In terms of hierarchy and seniority, the C-Suite (Chief) is at the top, followed by the V-Suite (Vice Presidents), and then the D-Suite (Directors).

C-Suite (C Level Executives)

The "C-Suite" stands for the "Chief" suite, referring to the highest-level executives in an

organization.

These positions typically include the Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Chief Operating Officer (COO), Chief Financial Officer (CFO), Chief Information Officer (CIO), Chief Technology Officer (CTO), Chief Marketing Officer (CMO), Chief Human Resources Officer (CHRO) among others. The C-Suite is responsible for making the most significant strategic decisions for the company and is at the top of the management hierarchy. Members of the C-Suite report directly to the Board of Directors and are instrumental in setting the company's overall direction, policies, and goals.

V-Suite (Vice President Level)

This term might be used to describe the Vice Presidents (VPs) of an organization. VPs are typically one level below the C-Suite and play a crucial role in developing strategies and policies for their areas of responsibility, ensuring the alignment with the company's overall objectives. Vice Presidents report directly to C-Suite executives.

D-Suite

This term could be used informally to refer to individuals holding Director-level positions within an organization. Directors are generally responsible for specific departments or functions and play a key role in operationalizing the strategic objectives set by the C-Suite. They report to Vice Presidents or directly to C-Suite members, depending on the organization's structure.

Board Directors

There is a difference between Directors and Board Directors.

- Above the C-Suite: Board Directors stand above the C-Suite in the corporate governance hierarchy. While C-Suite executives manage the company's strategic direction, the Board of Directors provides oversight, approves major decisions, and ensures the company's activities align with the broader interests of its shareholders and stakeholders.

- Role and Responsibilities: The Board of Directors is responsible for hiring, evaluating, and, if necessary, firing the CEO (and sometimes other C-level executives). They are involved in major decisions such as mergers and acquisitions, corporate policies, and strategic planning. The Board ensures that the company is managed effectively and ethically, adhering to legal and regulatory requirements, and safeguarding the interests of shareholders.

- Composition: A Board of Directors typically consists of both executive directors (who are members of the company's senior management, such as the CEO) and non-executive directors (who are independent of the company's day-to-day operations). This structure is designed to provide a balance of internal perspective and external independence in decision-making.

- Non Executive Director vs Independent Director: Both are types of directors in a company. Non-executive directors may represent a major shareholder, but independent directors generally have no other links with the company. Independent directors are non-executive directors who help the company improve corporate credibility and governance standards. They do not have any kind of relationship with the company that may affect the independence of their judgment.

All Independent directors are non-executive directors, but all non-executive directors are not Independent directors.

Journey to Independent Directorship