Thought Leadership

Stay up-to-date with expert insights from the industry and explore the perspectives of chiefs of staff around the world.

The Everything, Everywhere, All-At-Once CEO

In our latest report, developed in partnership with Milltown Partners, we explore how today’s leaders are navigating an unprecedented convergence of political, social, and technological pressures. The report focuses on the critical role that chiefs of staff play in managing this complexity.

Drawing on insights from over 250 global chiefs of staff, the report examines the widening gap between what organisations need from their leaders and the communication capabilities those leaders currently possess.

As scrutiny intensifies and expectations rise, chiefs of staff are increasingly stepping in as strategic advisers. They guide leaders on communication, reputation, and internal alignment. The report shows how chiefs of staff are helping leaders engage diverse stakeholders, manage reputational risk, and provide clarity during periods of transformation. Communication is positioned not as a soft skill, but as a foundational element of effective leadership.

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CSA Reports

Explore comprehensive insights into the Chief of Staff role. Delve into findings from CSA’s Executive Education Programmes and access the latest data on the current state of the profession.

The Spacemaker

In our most recent report, we delve into the evolving chief of staff role, highlighting their unique position as “The Spacemaker” who fosters innovation, resilience, and transformation by creating space for critical thinking and strategic conversations.

From the nuances of strategic alignment to cultivating a culture of psychological safety, this report explores the key themes and insights from the Oxford Executive Education programme held in August 2024.

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The Great Connector

May 2024 
University of Oxford Executive Education

State of Industry Report

December 2023 
CSA Research

Catalysing Innovation

October 2023
Harvard Business School Executive Education

Chief of Staff Compensation Report

November, 2022
CSA Research

The Art of Servant Leadership

September 2022
University of Oxford Executive Education

Speaking Truth to Power

April 2022
University of Oxford Executive Education

CSA Journals

The Chief of Staff is the professional journal of The Chief of Staff Association. It aims to share knowledge, skills, and ideas about one of the world’s most important but understudied professions ‒ one which, almost by definition, operates discreetly and ‘under the radar’.

People and Culture

Our latest issue, The Chief of Staff: People and Culture (September 2024), explores the critical role of culture in leadership. From managing cultural differences to fostering inclusive communities, this edition provides key insights for Chiefs of Staff aiming to enhance organisational success through cultural alignment. Discover expert perspectives and practical strategies to help your organisation thrive.

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The Partnership Issue

Volume 6
January 2024

The Authority Issue

Volume 6
January 2024

The Information Issue

Volume 5
May 2023

The Business Issue

Volume 4, Issue 2
November 2022

The Agile Issue

Volume 4, Issue 1
April 2022

The Leadership Issue

Volume 3
December 2021

The Power Issue

Volume 2
June 2021

The Connection Issue

Volume 1
January 2021