Redefining the role of the CEO: challenges and conflicts.

An increasingly uncertain and turbulent environment, coupled with growing organizational complexity, suggest greater centrality of the role of the chief executive officer (CEO). In this article, the emerging role of the CEO is casts in terms of three metaphors. First, the CEO is seen as Perimeter Player, concerned with adaptation of the organization to its external environment. Next, the CEO is described as Interior Designer, focused on the management of internal operations of the enterprise. Finally, the CEO is viewed as Leader of the Band, serving as the keeper of corporate values and providing strategic vision and direction to the organization. Also addressed are the challenges and conflicts that emerge as the CEO plays out the multiple roles.