title: Vice President of Medical Affairs--moving on up to CEO?
abstract: Increasingly, physician executives are reaching the conclusion that if they choose, they may be viable candidates for CEO positions. While this opinion has merit, it must be tempered by marketplace realities. A fundamental issue for VPMAs aspiring to become CEOs is that they have little formalized training or education for CEO roles. Also, they may lack team-building skills--a critical success factor. Physician executives who seek out professional development opportunities that enhance both their interpersonal/management and "business" skills--accounting, finance, and planning--are more likely to be attractive candidates and succeed once they are in the position. Another consideration is that the CEO position usually has a precursor role--the COO. This position is the training ground for the CEO. Physician executives aspiring to be CEO will want to consider the following suggestions: (1) Make your intentions known; (2) groom your successor; (3) request a title change; (4) get your master's degree; (5) pursue professional development opportunities; (6) consider leaving the organization; and (7) talk with your family.
authors.affiliation: Tyler & Company, Atlanta, USA. ltyler@tylerandco.com
authors.forename: J L
authors.initials: JL
authors.lastname: Tyler
mesh_terms: D002322:Career Mobility; D016542:Chief Executive Officers, Hospital; D008486:Physician Executives; D010819:Physician's Role; D010934:Planning Techniques; D014481:United States