The article presents findings of the studies conducted to find the factors leading to the success of executives. Three categories of executive roles exist: operations, advisory and collaborative. Each requires its own skills and behaviors and moving a leader from one type of role to another without proper development puts the success of the person and company at risk. Competencies that were judged most important in executives and other leaders were communication skills and vision topping the list and honesty just slightly behind. Engaging people in the vision and strategy, developing subordinates, and communicating are some areas that need development.