The Only 3 Titles That Matter in Business
“There’s actually only three titles that actually mean anything for a corporation: PRESIDENT, SECRETARY, and TREASURER...
The rest are just made-up titles. They don’t mean anything.”
— Elon Musk
But forget the titles—let’s talk about what these roles really do in a functioning business.
Role 1: President/CEO/Visionary
Someone has to set the direction.
They keep the big picture clear, make the tough calls, and drive the business forward.
They answer: "Where are we going, and why?"
You need this role to:
-
Create the strategy
-
Keep people focused
-
Make the final call when it counts
Role 2: Secretary/Operator/COO
Someone has to get it done.
This person turns ideas into execution. They make sure things don’t fall through the cracks and the engine runs smoothly.
They answer: "How are we getting there, and what's next?"
You need this role to:
-
Build systems and manage ops
-
Keep the team organized
-
Ensure nothing gets missed
Role 3: Treasurer/CFO
Someone has to manage the money.
This role isn’t sexy, but it’s mission-critical. Cash is the oxygen and someone better be watching it.
They answer: "Is this financially sustainable?"
You need this role to:
-
Track cash flow
-
Watch margins and burn rate
-
Guide decisions with real numbers
Bottom Line
Every business needs:
✔️ A leader
✔️ An executor
✔️ A financial backstop
Sometimes that’s three people.
Sometimes it’s one person wearing all three hats.
Either way—ignore these at your peril.
Our Focus At Vision to Life
We help founders nail the first two: VISION & EXECUTION.
That’s where most businesses stall.
Responses