Chief communication officers (CCOs) face increasingly complex challenges due to dynamic developments in the technological, sociopolitical and economic spheres. Consequently, they are forced to continuously develop their competencies to innovate at a high speed, future-proof their teams and create communication excellence. While learning on the leadership level is well-studied from a management perspective, little is known about how CCOs practice managerial learning, the challenges they experience and how they manage and evaluate these obstacles. This study tries to fill this knowledge gap.
A qualitative approach was applied to explore this under-researched topic. In-depth interviews with a sample of 30 CCOs from the 300 largest European companies were conducted, covering 10 different countries. The qualitative design was supported by a standardized pre-questionnaire.
The interviewees recognize the need for continuous learning, but their activities are mainly limited to peer exchange and experimentation. While the professional discourse is often driven by agency studies that many do not take seriously, academic research is seen as disconnected from practice. Structured learning opportunities for experienced communication leaders are scarce, which might explain why most interviewees acquire additional competencies in general management but not in corporate communications.
This empirical study is the first to examine how CCOs develop their competencies. It highlights the significance of managerial learning for advancing corporate communications and explores the challenges leaders face in adopting different learning styles. The findings reveal both strengths and gaps in existing learning practices, offering valuable insights for academic research and professional discourse.
