Event
Is the Chief of Staff becoming the most important role you've never noticed?
25 June 2026
THE CEO'S SECOND BRAIN
Not the loudest voice in the room. Often the most important.
At our recent Echo Leadership Breakfast, hosted by Judith Everett, Chief of Staff at Arup, one theme emerged repeatedly: today's best Chiefs of Staff are far more than coordinators or gatekeepers. They are the CEO's second brain. Part strategist. Part diplomat. Part conscience. Part catalyst.
They connect the dots across the enterprise, challenge assumptions, surface uncomfortable truths, and help leaders navigate increasing complexity, uncertainty and stakeholder scrutiny.
One insight particularly resonated: the role is shifting from managing outputs to driving outcomes. The best Chiefs of Staff don't simply ensure things get done. They ensure the right things get done and create measurable impact.
It was said that the role requires being "part Yoda, with just a hint of Darth Vader when necessary." Wise enough to listen. Courageous enough to act.
In a world of growing complexity, perhaps every CEO needs a trusted interpreter between strategy and execution.
What do you think: is the Chief of Staff becoming a leadership necessity, or is it a luxury role?
