Senior Vice Presidents (SVPs) and Vice Presidents (VPs) are high-level executives just below the C-suite. A VP typically leads a major function or division, while an SVP is a more senior VP overseeing larger scopes or multiple departments.
What do they do? These roles involve providing strategic direction and managing teams to meet company goals. VPs and SVPs oversee internal operations and staff, ensuring their departments hit targets in areas like revenue, market growth, or project delivery. They set business goals (for example, an SVP might aim to “maximize revenue”) and supervise managers or other VPs, evaluating performance and solving high-level issues. They also collaborate with other executives on overall strategy.
How is success measured? Both VPs and SVPs are accountable for achieving the key performance indicators (KPIs) of their units. Success metrics can include meeting financial targets, driving departmental growth, and improving efficiency. In fact, SVPs often “track success metrics” like departmental budgets, profits, and project outcomes to ensure they align with company objectives. Their effectiveness is evident when their teams reach goals and contribute to the company’s strategic plan.
Salary Range (USA): Vice Presidents and SVPs earn substantial salaries above the national average. For example, a median VP in the U.S. makes around $150,000 per year, with typical ranges between about $54,000 and $250,000 depending on industry and experience. Senior VPs usually command the higher end of that spectrum. Data shows most SVP salaries fall roughly between $115,000 and $190,000 (25th–75th percentiles), with top earners around $244,000 annually. In large companies or lucrative sectors, total compensation (including bonuses and stock) for an SVP can exceed these figures, often venturing well into six or low seven figures for exceptional performers.