Chief investment officers are found in companies across many types of firms and sectors. So, those who aspire to an executive role need to develop broad professional knowledge and comprehensive skills and experiences that will provide them with a big-picture perspective and help them avoid being defined too narrowly in a limited niche. At the same time, their generalist experience must include a firm understanding of many investment areas and classes.

With fintech and other tech-driven trends transforming many aspects of the financial services industry, gaining a solid understanding of technology and its potential applications will be key for future executives. According to the CFA Institute Future of Finance report Investment Professional of the Future, investment professionals who want to advance in their careers will need to practice continual learning, adapt to frequent changes, keep investing in new-era skills, and be tech-savvy about navigating and harnessing new technology. Not only does the CFA Program curriculum remain current and relevant by reflecting the latest best practices for investment professionals and preparing them for a lifetime of learning but supporting the continuing professional development of CFA charterholders and members is also a fundamental part of the CFA Institute mission.

A 2019 CFA Institute compensation study of charterholders and members found that chief investment officers (CIOs) with a CFA charter reported a typical total, global compensation of US$240,000 (US$184,000 base salary).