CXO is the collective name given to that expanding class of corporate executives whose title begins with the word 'chief' and ends with the word 'officer'. Leading in the Top Team explores the leadership contributions required from the CEO, and by chiefs of other key business functions, including finance, marketing, sales, supply chain, manufacturing, IT, R and D, HR, governance, communications and the strategic business unit. Leadership in each of these areas is examined by looking at its history, challenges facing the CXO, how each function needs to work with other key areas, and likely future developments. The focus throughout is to provide practical advice based on the actions and decisions of real leaders in a range of roles and situations. This is an excellent book for giving business leaders, whether current or potential, an overview of the work of leadership and teamwork at the top level of the company.

Review of the hardback:‘The ideas here are critical for developing a company vision, especially one that is based on an aggressive growth strategy. As a CEO, I am using this book in very pragmatic ways. The detailed descriptions of the CXO roles, and how these are changing, help us greatly in selecting new members for the top team, in objectively appraising the contributions of CXOs, and in aligning the top team mind-set around our strategic goals, our processes, and our values.’

Review of the hardback:‘This book provides valuable insight and practical ideas for anyone working within or alongside the SCM function of an organisation. It very clearly shows the linkage between SCM and business transformation, providing a mixture of traditional theory with forward-thinking ideas. Ensuring that SCM is recognised as a strategic differentiator is key, and this book provides a good framework on how that vision can be articulated and ‘sold’ across an enterprise.’

Review of the hardback:‘I really value the way this book describes the changing role of the CIO in the context of all the other CXO roles, and in particular, the way it brings to life the holy grail of IT and future role of the CIO - unlocking the full business value of all the information residing inside the enterprise.’

Review of the hardback:‘This book gives useful insights about the work of the CEO and other senior executives. Good reading for members of top level business teams, for those who support such teams, and for those who aspire to join them.’

Review of the hardback:‘I believe that an effective finance function must work closely with the business in order to drive growth and manage risk in a balanced manner. The CFO chapter in this book provides excellent insights into the role of the chief financial officer, and the skills and qualities that are essential to fulfil this. Many aspects of the chapter resonate with my own experiences, in particular the recognition that strong leadership skills, and focus on talent development are also fundamental to the CFO’s mandate of protecting and enhancing shareholder value.’

Review of the hardback:‘The Chief of Marketing role is broad and complex, from day-to-day management of brands and portfolios, to long-term growth visions and innovation. But the most successful CMOs are the ones that engage the hearts and minds of the CEO and other functions to bring the total company closer to consumers and customers. This book describes the basics of doing just that.’

Review of the hardback:‘A thought provoking hypothesis that emphasizes the systemic nature of the CHRO role whilst challenging the 'right' to influence at the strategic level dependent on service delivery. It also highlights how crucial change skills are to any modern CHRO.’

Review of the hardback:‘A practical toolbox for all CXOs and the CEO. This book provides invaluable insights on how to excel in the different roles and how to leverage mutual skill sets to succeed as a wealth creating team. Recommended for everyone from MBA students to CXOs, CEOs and board members.’

Review of the hardback:‘The brilliantly written chapter on the CCO challenge acknowledges the strategic role of corporate communications and its impact on a company's most valuable asset: its reputation. The chapter describes the multiple facets of the task of the CCO and the multiple skills a CCO should have. It also makes it clear that a business decision which cannot be sensibly communicated should probably reconsidered - one reason more why the CCO should sit at the table where the decisions are taken and not wait outside until the decision has been taken to then just execute the communication.’

Review of the hardback:'… a painstakingly detailed primer that looks like everything a 'CXO' should know. … The result is exhaustive and deeply illuminating.'