DECA CDC Practice

Study Guide

Chief Executive Officer

A chief executive officer (CEO), also known as a chief executive or managing director, is the top-ranking corporate officer charged with the management of a company or a nonprofit organization.

Entrepreneur

a person who organizes and operates a business or businesses, taking on greater than normal financial risks in order to do so.

Investor

a person or organization that puts money into financial plans, property, etc. with the expectation of achieving a profit.

Small Business Owner

an individual who owns, manages, and operates a for-profit enterprise, typically characterized by limited staff (often under 500 employees), lower annual revenue compared to large corporations, and a hands-on approach to daily operations. They are responsible for strategic decisions, financial risk, andOften, they focus on local markets or niche services.

Chief Innovative Officer

a C-suite executive who leads an organization's innovation strategy, managing the process of developing and implementing new ideas, technologies, and business models to drive growth, efficiency, and competitive advantage, often by fostering a culture of change and exploring emerging trends. They bridge the gap between strategic vision and operational execution, working across departments to turn innovative concepts into market-ready solutions.

Consultant

provides expert, objective advice and services to other companies, helping them solve problems, improve performance, and achieve goals in specialized areas like strategy, IT, marketing, or operations, often on a project basis, acting like an external specialist or "doctor" for the business. Consultants offer skills and perspectives that companies lack internally, leading to better efficiency, growth, and navigating complex changes.