As businesses navigate growing complexities driven by rapid technological change and shifting geopolitical landscapes, an increasing number of chief executive officers are turning to chiefs of staff to help manage their expanding responsibilities. The role, once relatively uncommon in the corporate world, has gained significant traction in recent years, reflecting evolving leadership needs within organizations.

Richard Gelfond, CEO of Imax, has employed a chief of staff for more than 16 years, initially viewing the position as a personal aide to take notes and manage his schedule. However, as Imax expanded from 55 theatres to nearly 2,000 across more than 90 countries, the position evolved into a strategic partnership integral to navigating the company’s growth and innovation efforts. Gelfond’s former chief of staff, Raphael Roesler, notably coordinated the development of specialized cameras used in Christopher Nolan’s film, The Odyssey.

Data from the job-posting platform Indeed indicates an 85 percent increase in chief of staff listings since early 2020, outpacing growth rates for executive assistant and secretary roles. Unlike executive assistants, who typically manage logistical tasks such as scheduling, chiefs of staff operate at a more senior level, often functioning as a second brain to executives by helping prioritize initiatives, coordinate cross-departmental efforts, and execute strategic objectives.

Clara Ma, founder and CEO of the networking platform Ask a Chief of Staff, highlights that chiefs of staff assess whether tasks warrant executive attention rather than simply scheduling them. The position commands salaries ranging from $150,000 to over $200,000 annually, depending on experience. Executive search firms have reported increased demand not only among CEOs but also for vice presidents in marketing, communications, and finance seeking similar support.

Industry experts, including Catherine Berardi, former chief of staff to Ariel Investments co-CEO Mellody Hobson, point to the growing complexity of issues like artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and customer growth as driving the need for this role. Chiefs of staff often serve as organizational “orchestrators,” ensuring alignment and effective collaboration across business units.

The role varies significantly depending on the needs of the executive and organization. Some chiefs of staff oversee teams, while others serve as trusted advisers with no direct reports. Across sectors, the common denominator is a dedicated focus on supporting the leader’s agenda and facilitating seamless internal communication.

Several chiefs of staff interviewed expressed that the role provides a valuable springboard to senior leadership positions, offering broad exposure and networking opportunities within companies. For example, Vikram Arumilli, former chief of staff to Gelfond, transitioned to a general manager role at Imax before accepting a CEO position at a New Zealand-based software firm. Others have advanced to senior roles at companies like Yahoo and Thrive Global.

Not all leaders embrace the position, however. Spencer Rascoff, CEO of Match Group, says he prefers direct interaction with his teams and relies on artificial intelligence tools to assist with organization and meeting preparation instead of a chief of staff. While Rascoff recognizes the advantages of having an adviser, he distinguishes the role’s human judgment and relationship-building elements from AI’s capabilities.

Gelfond acknowledges the evolving integration of AI in executive support but sees chiefs of staff as essential for translating technology’s potential into practical organizational benefits. “Maybe they’ll teach me enough to replace themselves,” he said, “but they haven’t done that yet.”