Executive resume template

Article

Going for the top job? You will need an exceptional resume that demonstrates you as a unique and expert candidate who is both an innovative thinker and a resilient leader. It’s important that at this senior level you curate a list of the most relevant jobs that detail your unique ability to lead an organisation, along with any board memberships, international ventures and organisational partnerships. Here are our top tips on writing a brilliant executive resume.

Do keep it succinct.

Do tailor or customise your executive resume for every role you apply for.

Do be specific about your experience and the responsibilities you have in each role.

Do highlight the most influential and successful projects you’ve worked on.

Do include any boards, start-ups or organisations you are a member of.

Do show that you’ve done extensive research about the company or organisation you want to work for.

Do mention names of executives or industry leaders you’ve worked and collaborated with in your career.

Do always run a thorough spelling and grammar check before submitting your resume.

Don’t use company-specific language or terminology. Opt for what is known and understood at an industry level.

Don’t use outdated or unprofessional contact details. Always use your most recent, most relevant, and most professional contact details.

Don’t use the same executive CV for every job. Make sure each one is tailored for the role and organisation you’re applying with.

Don’t cite any irrelevant jobs. Only the most relevant and representative jobs that reflect your exceptional ability should be listed.

Don’t repeat information. See every word in your executive resume as valuable and an opportunity to sell yourself as the best candidate - so no duplication!

This executive resume example works because it adheres to basic resume-writing best practice. It is concise, yet detailed, roles are ordered chronologically and the resume uses plenty of bullet points to call out key accomplishments and achievements.

The candidate has an extensive list of educational accolades, leadership experience and noteworthy memberships, all of which are cited clearly on this executive resume template. The memberships also indicate enthusiasm for innovation and new talent, and show that over time, strong networks have been developed by this candidate. These too are critical parts of an executive CV.

Making your executive resume exceptional is about ensuring it is tailored specifically to the organisation and role you’re applying for, and that the best parts of your experience are detailed clearly. Speaking in general terms won’t cut it at this level, so be specific about how your innovative strategies were implemented, how you reduced operation costs or how the direction you took led to increased profits, for example. This is what will set you apart.

Writing an executive resume that gives you the best chance at that next senior role is achievable for all candidates. Just follow the above tips and use our executive resume template as a guide and you’ll be on track to success.

Take a look at our resume tips page for more advice on how to write a resume.

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