Bundling career capital with intertwined governance structure: Career construction of pioneering CEOs in Turkey

Abstract

The aim of the study is to explore career construction of pioneering CEOs in Turkey. A qualitative research methodology was used in order to understand CEOs' career progression. Data was collected from career stories about pioneering CEOs of big and well-known companies in Turkey. It was found that career construction of pioneering CEOs was shaped by bundling career capital with intertwined governance structure. Managing relations with chairman and board members are critical success factors in CEOs' careers. CEOs are more successful in the cases in which there was a dominant chairman of the business group and CEOs accommodated the management style and business expectations of the chairman.