How to become a chief operations officer?

The career path to becoming a Chief Operations Officer (COO) generally involves obtaining a bachelor's degree in business or another related field, as well as a master's degree in business administration (MBA). In addition to these education requirements, COOs typically must have extensive industry or work experience before becoming a C-suite executive. Though exact years of experience vary by organization and industry, many COOs work their way up through various management positions for years before becoming executive managers. Once gaining enough managerial experience, a COO can typically find opportunities in multiple different industries. Depending on the industry or organization, Chief Operations Officers may also need specific certifications and licensures, but it is not always required in this position.