How to be a Chief Reputation Officer | Career Guide

87 percent of top executives rated reputational risk as being even more important  than strategic risk. In today’s business environment, forward-thinking leaders recognize the invaluable importance of their brand’s reputation. How valuable? Well, a study by the World Economic Forum, concluded that reputation accounts for more than 25 percent of a company’s market value…No wonder the role of Chief Reputation Officer is increasingly common in the c-suite of major corporations.

Financier Worldwide had this to say about the growing Chief Reputation Officer role:

For the moment, it would appear that where the role of the CRO sits within an organization falls somewhere between two distinct stools: clearly more than just a concept but not yet an accepted C-suite level position.

Moreover, wherever the role may sit, and given the inexorable rise in the complexity risks that exist across today’s business environment, what does seem certain is that the rise of the CRO will continue until the role takes its place somewhere in the corporate hierarchy.

If you’re interested in becoming a Chief Reputation Officer, Popl is here to help with information on the role, its skills, and the steps you’ll take to get there.

What is a Chief Reputation Officer?

A Chief Reputation Officer (CRO) is a senior executive responsible for overseeing an organization's reputation and image. The CRO is responsible for creating and implementing strategies to enhance and protect the organization's reputation through various channels, such as media relations, crisis management, and stakeholder engagement. The role of the CRO is to ensure that the organization is perceived positively by its various stakeholders, including customers, employees, investors, and the public.

What does a Chief Reputation Officer do?

The role of Chief Reputation Officer is evolving, however responsibilities may include:

• Developing and implementing strategies to enhance the organization's reputation and image
• Monitoring and analyzing media coverage and public perception of the organization
• Responding to and managing crisis situations that may affect the organization's reputation
• Building and maintaining positive relationships with key stakeholders, including customers, employees, investors, and the public
• Creating and executing communication plans to promote the organization's brand and values
• Collaborating with other departments, such as marketing and public relations, to ensure consistency in messaging and reputation management
• Analyzing data and using market research to understand the organization's reputation and identify opportunities for improvement.

How to become a Chief Reputation Officer

Many of those who end up in a Chief Reputation Officer role come from background in human resources or public relations. But there are many potential avenues. Here are some steps to consider taking in your journey to becoming a Chief Reputation Officer

• Build a solid foundation in communication and marketing: A background in communication, marketing, public relations, or a related field is essential for a CRO. Consider obtaining a degree in one of these areas or gain relevant experience through internships or entry-level positions.
• Gain experience in reputation management: Experience in managing an organization's reputation is crucial for a CRO. Look for opportunities to work in public relations, crisis management, or reputation management roles.
• Network and build relationships: Building relationships with industry professionals, media outlets, and key stakeholders is important for a CRO. Consider attending conferences and events to meet others in the field and make connections.
• Stay up-to-date with industry trends: Stay informed about industry trends, best practices, and emerging technologies in reputation management. Read industry publications, attend events and conferences, and join professional organizations.
• Develop strong leadership skills: A CRO must be an effective leader and have the ability to influence and collaborate with others. Consider taking courses or participating in leadership development programs to enhance your skills.
• Gain a deep understanding of the organization's brand and values: Understanding the organization's brand and values is critical for a CRO. Familiarize yourself with the organization's history, mission, and vision, as well as its stakeholders and their needs.
• Seek out senior-level opportunities: As you gain experience and build your skills, look for senior-level opportunities in reputation management or related fields. Consider taking on additional responsibilities and seeking out promotions to demonstrate your capabilities and increase your chances of becoming a CRO.

Chief Reputation Officer Skills

Chief Reputation Officer is a highly skilled position. Among Chief Reputation Officers, some notable skills include:

• Strategic thinking: CROs must be able to develop and implement strategies to enhance and protect the organization's reputation.
• Communication: CROs must have excellent written and verbal communication skills and be able to articulate the organization's values and messages effectively.
• Leadership: CROs must be able to lead and motivate teams and work effectively with other departments and stakeholders.
• Problem-solving: CROs must be able to anticipate and respond to crisis situations and manage reputational risks.
• Media relations: CROs must have experience working with the media and be able to communicate effectively with journalists and other stakeholders to build your business network.
• Stakeholder management: CROs must be able to build and maintain positive relationships with key stakeholders, including customers, employees, investors, and the public.
• Market research and analysis: CROs must be able to analyze data and use market research to understand the organization's reputation and identify opportunities for improvement.
• Adaptability: CROs must be able to quickly adapt to changes in the market, the organization, and public perception.
• Creativity: CROs must have the ability to think outside the box and develop innovative solutions to enhance the organization's reputation.
• Ethical judgment: CROs must have strong ethical judgment and the ability to make sound decisions in the best interest of the organization and its stakeholders.

How much do Chief Reputation Officers Make?

According to Salary.com, the median income of Chief Reputation Officers is $240,000. Among the organizations that employ Chief Reputation Officers, the role may be one of the top-paying c-level positions and include bonuses and other benefits in addition to annual salary.

Best resources for aspiring Chief Reputation Officers

Here are some valuable resources if you want to be a Chief Reputation Officer:

• Professional organizations: Joining professional organizations, such as the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA) or the International Association of Business Communicators (IABC), can provide opportunities for networking, professional development, and access to industry resources.
• Industry publications: Stay up-to-date with industry trends and best practices by reading relevant publications, such as PR Week, PR News, and Reputation Management Magazine.
• Conferences and events: Attending conferences, trade shows, and other industry events, such as the PRSA International Conference or the Reputation Institute's Reputation Leaders Summit, can provide opportunities to learn from experts in the field, network with peers, and stay up-to-date with industry trends.
• Online courses: Consider taking online courses or certifications, such as the PRSA Accreditation in Public Relations (APR) or the IABC's Accreditation in Business Communication (ABC), to enhance your knowledge and skills in reputation management.
• Networking opportunities: Seek out networking opportunities with other professionals in the field, such as through LinkedIn or professional events. Consider reaching out to CROs and other reputation management professionals for mentorship and advice.
• Case studies and research: Study case studies and research on reputation management to gain a deeper understanding of the field and identify best practices.
• Social media: Follow industry experts, TikTok, Instagram and YouTube influencers, and organizations on social media to stay informed about reputation management trends and strategies.

How to be a Chief Reputation Officer | Conclusion

Becoming a Chief Reputation Officer is an interesting journey that leads to a place of power and responsibility within an organization. Remember the fundamentals of the role, and that the best defense of a brand’s reputation is to offensively ensure its practices and treatment of employees, customers, and partners align. If your organization truly deserves a great reputation, then sharing that message will be much easier.

 

Good luck!

—

 

More Popl career guides

• How to be a Chief Learning Officer | Career Guide
• How to be a CXO | Career guide
• How to be a CHRO | Career guide