From October to the Corner Office: How Senior Leaders Can Position Themselves for a C-Suite Transition

October is not just about autumn colours and year-end targets. It is also a turning point in the business calendar. As the final quarter unfolds, organisations begin refining next year’s strategy, setting budgets, and making succession decisions. For senior leaders, whether directors, vice presidents or senior vice presidents, who aspire to move into the C-suite, October is the perfect time to reflect, recalibrate and reposition.
 
If you are serious about stepping into an executive role, here are some key areas to focus on this season.
 
1. October as a Career Turning Point
Year-end conversations often shape promotions, succession plans, and leadership development opportunities. While the year may feel as though it is winding down, decisions about who is ready for the next step are often ramping up. By taking stock now, you can align your career ambitions with your organisation’s priorities and ensure you are visible when opportunities arise.
 
For more insights on this, listen to Series 9 of my podcast, Your Path to Career Success, which is aimed specifically at senior leaders seeking to make the leap into the C-suite.
 
2. From Functional Expert to Enterprise Leader
The move from senior leadership to the C-suite requires a shift in perspective. It is no longer enough to lead your function well. You must show that you can think and act for the organisation as a whole.

• How are you connecting your work to the wider business strategy?
• Are you anticipating industry shifts and influencing the agenda, not just delivering against it?
• Do colleagues seek your perspective on issues beyond your own area?

 
This transition is about expanding your impact and being recognised as someone who can shape the business in its entirety.
 
3. Elevating Your Leadership Brand
At the executive level, strong performance is expected. What differentiates leaders is presence and influence. Consider:

• Does your leadership style project clarity, confidence and vision?
• Are you visible outside your function, whether at industry events, through thought leadership or in interactions with the board?
• Can you tell a compelling story about your career journey and your vision for what comes next?

 
Strengthening your leadership brand now ensures that when succession discussions take place, your name is one that carries weight.
 
4. Building the Right Relationships
Progression into the C-suite does not happen in isolation. Sponsors, mentors and allies are often crucial. October is an ideal time to strengthen relationships with key influencers in your organisation.
 
Think about:

• Arranging conversations with mentors for honest feedback.
• Asking to contribute to cross-functional projects that raise your visibility.
• Offering to lead initiatives that support the organisation’s wider goals.

The relationships you invest in now can become powerful advocacy when senior leaders are considering future appointments.
 
5. Your October Action Plan
Here are some practical steps you can take:

• Carry out a leadership gap analysis: Identify the skills and experiences you still need to be seen as C-suite ready.
• Seek feedback: Ask trusted colleagues or mentors for their perspective on your executive readiness.
• Take on stretch assignments: Volunteer for projects that demonstrate leadership beyond your immediate remit.
• Prepare for year-end reviews: Use your appraisal as an opportunity to share your aspirations and showcase achievements in a strategic way.

 
If you want structured support to set yourself up for 2026, my Unlock Your Career Potential three-month coaching programme has spaces available in October. It is designed to help senior leaders like you plan the transition to the C-suite with confidence.
 
6. Looking Ahead: 2026 and Beyond
A successful transition is not about one promotion but about sustained readiness for the future. By acting deliberately this October, you are preparing not only for 2025 but also laying the foundations for long-term impact. Align your growth with where your organisation and industry are heading and you will be viewed as not only ready but vital to the next phase of leadership.
 
Final Thought
October is more than the final push of the year. It is the launchpad for your next chapter. By broadening your perspective, strengthening your leadership brand, and building the right relationships, you can position yourself as the leader your organisation will need in the C-suite.
 
For practical strategies, inspiration and step-by-step guidance, tune into Series 9 of Your Path to Career Success and consider joining Unlock Your Career Potential this October to start 2026 on the front foot.
 
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