Measuring ROI on the Chief of Staff Role
The Chief of Staff in a business setting has historically been moldable to fit the executive. To better understand how this role delivers measurable value, we surveyed CEOs across the country, all with direct experience working with a Chief of Staff or similar roles such as Director of Operations, Director of Strategic Initiatives or Chief Operating Officer.
Since the Chief of Staff acts as the CEO’s ally, quietly commanding behind the scenes to amplify their power and vision, measuring ROI for this role is essential to understand the true impact of a skilled partner. In our study, we asked CEOs to identify qualitative and quantitative ROI measures. Here are the ways they measure ROI on the Chief of Staff role by percentage of response:
Qualitative Measures
74% – Increased CEO Efficiency
By taking on operational tasks and coordinating projects, the Chief of Staff allows the CEO to operate at their highest level of impact. This role protects the CEO’s time and enhances their strategic focus, ensuring that every minute is spent driving the company forward.
59% – Operational Optimization
With an eye for process and structure, the Chief of Staff refines workflows across teams, eliminating bottlenecks and fostering collaboration. This efficiency creates order, maintains control and optimizes every area of the CEO’s vision.
49% – Higher Strategic Alignment
Ensuring alignment with the CEO’s vision is the heart of the Chief of Staff role. Through clear, confident communication, the Chief of Staff keeps every department in the organization moving in concert toward the CEO’s and company’s goals.
38% – Better Decision-Making
With insights and analysis, the Chief of Staff empowers the CEO to make informed, decisive choices. This role brings a calm, nurturing influence, helping the CEO to face challenges with the ultimate clarity and swiftly move issues to solutions.
Quantitative Measures
65% – Cost Reduction
The Chief of Staff drives efficiency that directly impacts the bottom line, reducing unnecessary spending and optimizing resources. This is a testament to the strategic foresight and powerful stewardship that defines this role.
62% – Higher Number of Strategic Projects Completed
By overseeing high-impact initiatives, the Chief of Staff ensures that vital projects reach completion, advancing the CEO’s agenda and strengthening the company's foundation. The Chief of Staff’s competence, leadership and determination as a trusted advisor accelerates completion rates.
54% – Increased Revenue from CEO Availability
With the Chief of Staff managing operational duties, the CEO is free to focus on growth, partnerships and new opportunities. This increased availability translates directly into revenue, with the CEO able to fully invest time in high-priority tasks.
The data makes one thing clear: a high-performing Chief of Staff is much more than a support role. They are an essential partner in driving organizational success. In our research, the Chief of Staff emerges as the powerhouse behind the scenes, mastering structure, balance and efficiency. Through strategic partnership, humble leadership and a relentless drive to create harmony, they enable the CEO to lead with confidence and focus. More than support, the Chief of Staff’s strategic partnership transforms vision into reality.
Vannin Chief of Staff, founded in 2020, is a premier talent partner with a focus on roles supporting the CEO. We have a proven track record of helping executives find the right talent, full-time or fractionally, and up-level their talent via our proprietary advisory program. Vannin Chief of Staff has served over 250 clients globally, including Shopify, Orange Theory, Cordis, Lilac Solutions, GRIN, Propelus, WALR, Wish for Wheels and more. Get details at vanninchiefofstaff.com.