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Executive Cover Letter Examples and Templates for 2024

• Cover Letter Examples
• Cover Letter Text Examples
• How To Write a Executive Cover Letter

Executive positions are highly sought after, and you’ll encounter tough competition throughout the hiring process. Developing a detailed cover letter that encapsulates your top career achievements is the best way to make an impact on the hiring manager. Below, you’ll find examples and expert tips to help you craft an executive cover letter and differentiate yourself from other high-level executives during the job hunt.

Executive Cover Letter Templates and Examples

• Entry-Level
• Senior-Level

Executive Text-Only Cover Letter Templates and Examples

Sam Waters Senior Vice President | [email protected] | (123) 456-7890 | Seattle, WA 97201 | LinkedIn

January 1, 2024

Gabriel Marquez Hiring Manager Seattle Recruitment Inc. (987) 654-3210 [email protected]

Dear Mr. Marquez,

With 15 years of professional experience in the human resources (HR) and recruiting industries, I’ve led numerous staffing initiatives for large businesses with over 400 personnel. As the senior vice president of Talent Recruitment Corp., I interfaced with C-level executives and client stakeholders to drive recruitment initiatives to enhance the effectiveness of multi-national organizations.

My commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) strongly align with the culture and mission statement of Seattle Recruitment Inc. In my career, I’ve spearheaded various diversity recruiting efforts to transform businesses. My strong track record in delivering staffing and HR solutions to clients would be an asset to your organization based on my professional achievements:

• Developed recruitment strategies for over 30 client businesses valued at up to $3.5 million and partnered with executive leadership to evaluate organizational structure and staffing needs
• Led diversity recruiting initiatives and provided tactical leadership to transform work cultures and enhance employee engagement, which improved retention for clients by up to 25%
• Served as the point of contact for client accounts and built strategic partnerships with universities and other staffing firms within the greater Seattle area

I look forward to sharing more about how my expertise in recruiting and organizational leadership can benefit Seattle Recruitment Inc. Feel free to contact me for an interview at your earliest convenience.

Robert Cho Chief Executive Officer | [email protected] | (123) 456-7890 | Boston, MA, 97201 | LinkedIn

Louis Gentile Senior Hiring Manager ArkTech Software Corp. (987) 654-3210 [email protected]

Dear Mr. Gentile,

As you can see from my attached resume, I have over 14 years of experience as an executive and CEO in the technology industry. Building Solaris Software from a start-up company into a $20 million business was my greatest accomplishment. My vast experience in creating scalable business models within the software space would make me a strong asset to your company in the CEO position.

ArkTech Software Corp’s impressive reputation as an industry leader in Software as a service (SaaS) solutions aligns with my background as an innovator in the software solution market. My experience as a technology executive would aid the growth of your organization based on my career achievements:

• Built, managed, and scaled a start-up software solution business into a multi-million-dollar corporation, which West Sun Software Inc. acquired for $100 million in 2020
• Developed business strategies, analyzed market trends, and drove the development, deployment, and delivery of SaaS solution products, generating $8 million in annual revenue
• Created a scalable business model to facilitate the growth of 80% to 120% year-over-year (YOY)

I would like to schedule an interview to discuss how my knowledge of the software solution market could aid your company. You can contact me at your convenience with any questions you may have. Thank you for your time and consideration.

Joanne Li Vice President | [email protected] | (123) 456-7890 | San Francisco, CA 97201 | LinkedIn

Christine Matthews Senior Hiring Manager West Coast Solar (987) 654-3210 [email protected]

Dear Ms. Matthews,

With over 10 years of experience within the energy industry, I’ve managed various multi-million-dollar initiatives to bring green energy solutions to the market for Clean Power Corp. My ability to create strategic partnerships with enterprise customers and C-level executives would create immense value for your company as the new senior vice president of energy.

As an executive within the energy space, I identify with West Coast Solar’s mission statement of driving the expansion of renewable energy to combat climate change. My extensive background in providing green energy solutions would aid in this mission based on my career accomplishments:

• Led strategic initiatives to reduce carbon emissions in energy portfolios for enterprise clients valued at up to $300 million by delivering wind, solar, and nuclear energy solutions
• Structured energy transactions valued at up to $120 million and coordinated with the CEO and executive team to identify risk factors and negotiate purchases
• Reduced carbon footprint for enterprise customers by 5% to 15%

I look forward to telling you more about how my background in renewable energy can help drive the adoption of green energy solutions across your customer base. You can contact me for an interview at your convenience. Thank you for your consideration.

How To Write an Executive Cover Letter

The first step in writing a great executive cover letter is to identify the needs of target employers. Take time to reflect on your career, and determine how your industry knowledge can support their long-term goals. Companies are truly looking for thought leaders who can provide invaluable thought leadership at the highest levels of an organization. Branding yourself as both a leader and an industry expert should be the primary objective of your document. Below, we’ll provide additional guidance to help you craft each section of your executive cover letter:

1. Contact information and salutation

List your name, phone number, email, and LinkedIn URL in the header of your executive cover letter. Be sure to address the hiring manager by name — Mr. or Ms. [Last Name]. If you can’t find the hiring manager’s name, use a variation of “Dear Hiring Manager.” This shows you’ve taken the time to research the company before applying and conveys your genuine interest in the role.

2. Introduction

Lead with a powerful introduction at the top of your executive cover letter to leave a lasting impression on the hiring manager. Feature one of your strongest career achievements and emphasize your years of industry experience. This will create a connection in the reader’s mind for why your qualifications match the company.

As an executive, be sure to mention your background in leading diverse organizations and interfacing with the C-suite. Remember, hiring managers want to see you possess both the industry knowledge and leadership traits to help guide their organization.

3. Body paragraphs

The body paragraphs of your executive cover letter should feature qualifications, experience, and achievements that mirror the employer’s needs. Mention something specific about the company’s reputation, culture, or mission statement and how you can support their long-term goals. Showcase tangible examples of you transforming organizations and providing strategic leadership at the highest levels of management. This will send a clear message you’re a senior-level executive who can deliver substantial value to potential employers.

4. Executive skills and qualifications

Hiring managers aren’t interested in reading a long-winded list of skills on your executive cover letter. They want to see how you’ve applied your industry expertise and skill sets throughout your career. As you craft your paragraphs, feature key terms from the job description where they fit naturally. This helps to further showcase how your background uniquely positions you as an ideal candidate for the position. Below, you’ll find a variety of potential skills you can highlight in your document:

5. Closing section

Finish your executive cover letter with a call to action (CTA), such as inviting the hiring manager to bring you in for an interview or welcoming them to contact you for additional information on your background. Be sure to thank the reader for their time and consideration, as showing respect also demonstrates your professionalism.

Executive Cover Letter Tips

1. feature your executive leadership experience.

Executive leadership should be a focal point of your cover letter. Companies want to see you build successful teams, establish strong work cultures, and define long-term strategies for large organizations. Provide examples of you interfacing with the C-suite, as it’s important to send a clear message that you can collaborate effectively with high-ranking executives in corporate settings.

2. Quantify your career achievements

As an executive, you need to establish a sense of scope for your achievements by incorporating hard numbers, metrics, and monetary figures. For example, you might mention the size of the company or gross annual revenue figures. If you can’t quantify an achievement, focus instead on how your strategies, initiatives, and contributions positively impacted the organization.

3. Brand yourself as an industry thought leader

Companies expect executive candidates to be well-versed in their industry, providing strategic leadership to improve market positioning and drive positive business outcomes. As you craft your cover letter, emphasize your experience as a thought leader within your space. For example, if you were an executive within the energy industry, you might draw attention to your knowledge of market trends related to green and alternative energy.

Executive Cover Letter FAQs

Why should i include an executive cover letter -.

Cover letters play a more substantial role in the hiring process for executive candidates. Companies want to gain a better sense of who you are as a professional beyond what’s already been stated on your resume. Use this opportunity to provide unique insights into your personal values and why you’re the right fit for the organization’s culture.

Should I use an artificial intelligence tool to write my cover letter? -

Using an artificial intelligence (AI) tool to start your cover letter can be a viable option, but avoid having AI write the entire document for you. Despite recent technological advancements, AI-generated documents are often generic and prone to grammatical errors. Your cover letter needs to tell your unique story, and that isn’t possible without your input.

How long should my cover letter be? -

As an executive, it’s easy to end up with a long cover letter due to your extensive work history and experience. That said, it’s normally best to keep your cover letter concise and focused, even at the executive level. Limit your document to only three or four paragraphs. This ensures your cover letter emphasizes your most impressive and relevant qualifications.

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Frank Hackett

Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW)

Frank Hackett is a professional resume writer and career consultant with over eight years of experience. As the lead editor at a boutique career consulting firm, Frank developed an innovative approach to resume writing that empowers job seekers to tell their professional stories. His approach involves creating accomplishment-driven documents that balance keyword optimization with personal branding. Frank is a Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW) with the Professional Association of Resume Writers and Career Coaches (PAWRCC).

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18 Professional Executive Cover Letter Examples for 2024

Your executive cover letter must reflect your commanding leadership and strategic vision. Showcase concrete examples where your leadership directly contributed to your previous company's success. Demonstrate in your letter how your innovative thinking has solved complex problems. Ensure you highlight your ability to inspire teams and drive them towards achieving corporate goals.

All cover letter examples in this guide

Alliance Manager

Chief Executive Officer

Chief Financial Officer

Chief of Staff

Department Head

Department Manager

Executive Director

Executive Manager

Fractional CEO

Functional Manager

Vice President

Board of Directors

Cover letter guide.

Executive Cover Letter Sample

Cover Letter Format

Cover Letter Salutation

Cover Letter Introduction

Cover Letter Body

Cover Letter Closing

No Experience Executive Cover Letter

Key Takeaways

By Experience

Starting your job hunt, you've hit a snag: crafting an executive cover letter that stands out. It's not just a repeat of your resume—it's your chance to showcase a shining professional moment, woven into a compelling narrative. Yet, the task can be daunting. How do you strike the perfect balance of formality without falling into the trap of tired clichés? Keep it concise; one page is your limit. Let's unravel these challenges and help you pen an executive cover letter that captivates and convinces.

• Personalize your executive cover letter and get inspired by other professionals to tell a compelling story;
• Format and design your executive cover letter to make an excellent first impression;
• Introduce your best achievement in your executive cover letter to recruiters;
• How to make sure recruiters get in touch with you, using your executive cover letter greeting and closing paragraphs.

What is more, did you know that Enhancv's AI can write your cover letter for you? Just upload your executive resume and get ready to forward your job application in a flash.

If the executive isn't exactly the one you're looking for we have a plethora of cover letter examples for jobs like this one:

• Executive resume guide and example
• CIO cover letter example
• Chief Executive Officer cover letter example
• Fractional CEO cover letter example
• Board of Directors cover letter example
• Functional Manager cover letter example
• Managing Director cover letter example
• Chief Human Resources Officer cover letter example
• Director cover letter example
• Director of Finance cover letter example
• Assistant Branch Manager cover letter example

Executive cover letter example

Jordan Smith

San Francisco, California

+1-(234)-555-1234

[email protected]

• Emphasizing previous leadership experience and the successful management of a sizable team highlights the applicant's capability to handle responsibility, a crucial aspect for managerial roles.
• Detailing a specific achievement, such as the development of a strategic communication plan that resulted in a measurable increase in brand visibility, showcases the applicant's ability to deliver results and their expertise in strategic planning.
• Expressing the desire to apply past experience to drive growth and explore new opportunities demonstrates forward-thinking and an understanding of the need for innovation in technology-related positions.
• Demonstrating an understanding of the value of strategic media relations in the technology sector suggests specialized knowledge that is directly relevant to the role they are applying for.

What about your executive cover letter format: organizing and structuring your information

Here is one secret you should know about your executive cover letter assessment. The Applicant Tracker System (or ATS) won't analyze your cover letter.

You should thus focus on making an excellent impression on recruiters by writing consistent:

• Introduction
• Body paragraphs (and explanation)
• Promise or Call to action
• Signature (that's optional)

Now, let's talk about the design of your executive cover letter.

Ensure all of your paragraphs are single-spaced and have a one-inch margins on all sides (like in our cover letter templates ).

Also, our cover letter builder automatically takes care of the format and comes along with some of the most popular (and modern) fonts like Volkhov, Chivo, and Bitter.

Speaking of fonts, professionals advise you to keep your executive cover letter and resume in the same typography and avoid the over-used Arial or Times New Roman.

When wondering whether you should submit your executive cover letter in Doc or PDF, select the second, as PDF keeps all of your information and design consistent.

The top sections on a executive cover letter

• Header: This section includes the candidate's contact information, the date, and the employer's details, which is crucial for establishing a professional tone and ensuring the letter reaches the appropriate person.
• Opening Greeting: A personalized salutation addresses the hiring manager directly, demonstrating the candidate's attention to detail and respect for proper business etiquette.
• Executive Summary: This introductory paragraph should showcase the candidate's high-level experience and strategic vision, aligning with the executive role's requirement for leadership and decision-making capabilities.
• Leadership and Achievements: A dedicated section to highlight past leadership experiences, quantifiable accomplishments, and the impact on previous organizations, which is essential for an executive position.
• Call to Action and Closing: A strong concluding statement that invites further discussion and expresses enthusiasm for the role, leaving a lasting impression on the recruiter and reinforcing the executive's proactive approach.

Key qualities recruiters search for in a candidate’s cover letter

• Strategic vision and foresight: To demonstrate the ability to steer the company towards future growth and to anticipate industry trends.
• Leadership and team-building skills: To show that the executive can inspire, manage, and unify teams to achieve company goals.
• Proven track record in achieving results: To provide evidence of past accomplishments and successes in improving company performance, meeting targets, and driving growth.
• Financial acumen: To emphasize the capability to manage budgets, investments, and financial strategies efficiently.
• Relationship-building and networking abilities: To illustrate the potential to cultivate partnerships, negotiate deals, and represent the company in various circles.
• Adaptability and crisis management: To indicate readiness to handle change, resolve conflicts, and guide the company through challenging times.

What greeting should you use in your executive cover letter salutation

A simple "Hello" or "Hey" just won't work.

With your executive cover letter salutation , you set the tone of the whole communication.

You should thus address the hiring managers by using their first (or last name) in your greeting.

But how do you find out who's recruiting for the role?

The easiest way is to look up the role on LinkedIn or the corporate website.

Alternatively, you could also contact the organization via social media or email, for more information.

Unable to still obtain the recruiter's name?

Don't go down the "To whom it may concern path". Instead, start your cover letter with a "Dear HR team".

List of salutations you can use

• Dear [Hiring Manager's Name],
• Dear [Mr./Ms./Dr. Last Name],
• Dear [Search Committee or Department Name],
• Dear [Title/Position],
• Dear Hiring Team,
• Dear [Company Name] Team,

First introductions in your executive cover letter

Within your executive cover letter introduction , genuinely state what you like about the organization.

Research the latest company projects, honorary awards, company updates, etc.

Write up to two sentences to let recruiters know what impresses you about the company,

This would help you to set a good tone for the rest of the communication.

What comes next: your executive cover letter middle paragraphs

In the next three to six paragraphs (or the body of your executive cover letter) you have to prove your unique value .

Most candidates tend to mess up at this stage. They tend to just copy-paste information from their resume.

That's one big no-no.

Remember that when writing your executive cover letter, it has to be personalized. And, your ultimate aim is to catch the recruiter's eye.

So, look back on key job requirements and write down a list that includes the ones you cover.

Next, select just one key achievement from your professional (or personal) history that meets those advert keywords.

Narrate a story around how you've grown your skill set and knowledge. Also, aim to show the unique understanding or soft skills you bring about, thanks to your past success.

Final words: writing your executive cover letter closing paragraph

The final paragraph of your executive cover letter allows you that one final chance to make a great first impression .

Instead of going straight to the "sincerely yours" ending, you can back up your skills with a promise of:

• how you see yourself growing into the role;
• the unique skills you'd bring to the organization.

Whatever you choose, always be specific (and remember to uphold your promise, once you land the role).

If this option doesn't seem that appealing to you, close off your executive cover letter with a follow-up request.

You could even provide your availability for interviews so that the recruiters would be able to easily arrange your first meeting.

Addressing limited to no experience in the executive cover letter

There's nothing to worry about if you lack professional experience .

Your executive cover letter could bridge the gaps in your professional history by focusing on what matters most to recruiters, that's either:

• skills - focusing on transferable ones you've gained, thanks to your life experience (e.g. volunteering, certificates, etc.);
• achievements - select the most relevant and noteworthy one from your history (e.g. education, projects, etc.);
• motivation - describe how you envision your professional growth in the next up to five years, thanks to this opportunity.

Key takeaways

Writing your executive cover letter has never been easier, so remember to:

• Select a executive cover letter template that automatically meets industry formatting (e.g. has one-inch margins, is single-spaced, is in PDF, etc.);
• Make your executive cover letter personal by mentioning the recruiters' first or last name;
• Within the introduction, describe what you like best about the company in no more than two sentences;
• Use your executive cover letter body to tell a story of your greatest achievement, backed up by job-relevant skills and technologies;
• If you have no professional experience, be honest about it in your executive cover letter, but also write about your unique talents.

Executive cover letter examples

Explore additional executive cover letter samples and guides and see what works for your level of experience or role.

Cover letter examples by industry

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• Content tailored to the job posting you're applying for
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Executive cover letter example

Primary purpose

Secondary purpose, sharing your professional story.

Let’s face it: landing a position in the C-suite is a big deal. And a half-baked application just won’t cut it. For an executive role, you need laser focus, leadership and confidence that radiate from your resume and cover letter the moment a hiring manager (or top-level decision-maker) begins to read them.

The job search for an executive comes with unique challenges. You may be applying for a position with a former employer or upon recommendation from another professional contact. Maybe you’re an outsider competing against a few internal candidates. Whatever the situation, your application will need to be near-perfect to have a chance at your executive level dream job.

When applying for an executive role, you’ll be up against dozens of highly-qualified candidates, each with executive resumes full of impressive work histories. So how can you show you have what it takes to out-perform them all? A great cover letter can make all the difference in proving your ability to lead a company to success.

Resume.io is committed to helping you land the perfect position with a professional cover letter and exceptional resume. Our tools, tips and templates are expertly-designed to help even the most advanced candidates make a great first impression.

This executive cover letter example along with our free sample cover letter will:

• Explore the unique challenges of cover letter writing for executives
• Offer free examples, samples and templates to help you avoid common mistakes
• Explore the power of storytelling to help you beat out even the most qualified applicants
• Help you harness your unique advantages to impress the employer and land the interview!

So how do you craft an executive cover letter that will get you into the C-suite? Let's get going right now to show you how (you can also check out our library of 125+ cover letter examples).

Best format for an executive cover letter

If you’re applying for an executive position, this likely isn’t your first rodeo when it comes to applications, human resources and job interviews. Nevertheless, the stakes are as high as possible this time – your cover letter must be exceptional in every way in order to beat out the best of the best. 

Just because you have years of experience doesn’t mean your cover letter should be long and winding. In fact, the one page (about 200 to 400 words) rule of cover letter writing still applies to your document. The difference is, while a lower level applicant may get away with a few  rambling sentences, every single word of your executive cover letter must be precise and carefully chosen to build a picture of you as the ideal candidate. 

Is a standalone resume ever enough?

If you’re applying for an executive position upon professional recommendation or within a company where you’ve worked, you may not have a formal job application to refer to when questions arise. You may be left wondering if submitting just your resume is sufficient to land the job. Does a hiring manager want to read your cover letter even if they already know you?

The beauty of a well-crafted cover letter is that it’s never one-size-fits-all. Already have a great working relationship with the HR team? Address the letter recipient by first name and use a professional yet friendly tone to remind them of the success you’ve brought the company. Conversely, if you’re completely new to the employer, your cover letter can serve as the perfect introduction, making a hiring manager wonder why you hadn’t crossed paths before. 

In short, a cover letter is the perfect opportunity to either build on the connection you already possess or make a great first impression and leave a hiring manager wanting to learn more. That’s why we don’t recommend submitting a resume without one. For an executive position, you’ve only got one chance to put your best foot forward so why not use all the tools at your disposal?

When you’re up for an executive level position, you already know that your competition is fierce. Other applicants have been working their whole lives for this moment, hoping and praying that this time they’ll finally land that top leadership role. In order to outshine them all, your cover letter can’t miss a single opportunity to impress.

An executive cover letter must be crafted with care. Every sentence must add to the intrigue about who you are as a person and what you can bring to the table. Use the job description, social media and other research about the company to truly understand their mission and framework. Then, offer your most impressive accomplishments and your visions for leading your potential employer into the future.

While lower-level positions may need to demonstrate a penchant for learning quickly or following instructions, the executive is the one steering the ship. Your cover letter is the moment to be bold instead of modest by putting your biggest and brightest ideas on display. 

By creating a compelling cover letter that piques a hiring manager’s interest and addresses the company’s exact needs, you’ll come across as a natural fit – someone who should have been making executive decisions from the very beginning. In that sense, a cover letter is your secret weapon to maximize your chances of landing the position even in a crowded pool of applicants.

Tailoring your cover letter for success

The idea of a generic, fill-in-the-blanks cover letter for an executive is enough to make any hiring manager smile – and not in a good way. How can a candidate be trusted to make the most important decisions in the company if they can’t even craft a unique application? You may want to turn to sample sentences and examples for advice when crafting such an important document – and you should! Just make sure that your final product is highly customized for the exact position and company you are applying to.

An executive cover letter must show a deep understanding of the company needs and workflow with examples of previous successes that clearly meet those demands. Your personality and leadership style should also be a clear component of your cover letter. 

Resume.io’s executive cover letter sample is meant to give you a base to work off of, but don’t be afraid to spend more time crafting a cover letter that is uniquely yours.

Your cover letter is an executive summary. You need to state your case in a concise manner. This means taking care of the formatting and structure of your letter.

The format of an executive cover letter should contain the following elements:

• The cover letter header
• The greeting / salutation
• The cover letter intro
• The middle paragraphs (body of the letter)
• The ending paragraph of your cover letter (conclusion and call-to-action)

The format of a librarian cover letter should cover the entire basic picture of how you run a library’s day-to-day operations. It is easy to gush about your love of literature, but if you do not state how you run the operations, or balance the books, doubts will quickly surface about your impact. The cover letter sample at the end of this paragraph provides a good illustration of this dual approach.

The comprehensive cover letter guide offers more general advice about how to go about compiling cover letters, but below you will find specific advice on how to maximize the effectiveness of each specific letter paragraph and section.

This executive cover letter example gives you an overall idea of how this part of your application should sound:

Dear Mr. Hindmarch,

Having led consumer delivery businesses for the past two decades, I have overseen the rise of mobile app led business models and been at the forefront of using social channels for customer acquisition and engagement. When reliable service is your business, new customers will only consider working with you if you can shout about how great you are.

The Executive role at Just Deliver is timely as I have recently exited my last business and, after a period of leave, I am ready to get back into the industry. In both previous leadership roles, I have had full P&L responsibility with direct reports in Sales, Marketing, Operations and Finance.

After a degree in Logistics Management at Ohio State, I worked my way up the management ladder for eight years at Stork Delivery, primarily in the Sales and Marketing divisions, but then moved to Swifts, working as Operations Director for two years and after a management buyout became Managing Director.

My achievements in the two years leading Swifts were considerable:

• Grew customer base by 120% - from 500 to 1,100 with revenue growing by 140%
• Expansion was driven by new territory development. Organic LFL sales growth +18%.
• Developed No. 1 rated mobile app and award-winning customer engagement portal.
• Grew a team of 45 employees to 100+ improved staff retention from 65% to 85%

I see that regional expansion ranks at the top of your growth agenda and I hope that my experiences will prove useful. Marketing visibility is critical when you are entering a new territory and I would love to share some of my social media playbook secrets should we have the opportunity to sit down for a chat.

Your leadership team has a reputation for innovation and customer focus and I would be honored to work with them to take the business to the next level.

Looking for more ideas before you get started? Have a glance at our other Business & Management cover letters: 

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Cover letter header

Your cover letter header occupies the prime real estate at the very top of your document. Because of its prominent position, the header serves two purposes. The first is to identify your document with your name, contact information, social media like LinkedIn and any other vital information in case a hiring manager wants to contact you. 

The second role of your header is to create attractive formatting that makes a statement. For an executive role, you’ll want to pay careful attention to the message sent by your visual presentation. You’ll want to convey a sense of authority and confidence while still conforming to the employer’s image.

The goal of this section: Keep your name and contact information right at the top of your document in case a hiring manager wants to get in touch. Create an attractive and deliberate format that conveys your personal style while still fitting in with the employer’s branding.

Align document styles!

For executive-level candidates, professional formatting isn’t just a bonus – it’s a requirement. One of the most important steps you shouldn’t miss when crafting your application is aligning the document styles of your cover letter and resume. By creating a consistent look and feel for your documents, you’ll present yourself as the complete package – someone who knows the importance of image and branding.

Crafting a polished format doesn’t have to be a pain. Cover letter and resume templates are specifically designed to take the stress out of the process. Within Resume.io’s template library, you can choose the design that best matches your industry, potential employer and personal style, then customize it to make it your own, all in a few clicks.

Cover letter greeting

Your cover letter greeting serves an important role in setting a friendly and respectful tone for the rest of the letter. As mentioned earlier in this example, you can customize your greeting based on your level of familiarity with the company or the hiring team. If you’re not exactly sure what’s most appropriate, err on the side of caution with the simple and professional “Dear” followed by the correct salutation and last name of the letter recipient.

The goal of this section: Create a personal connection by addressing the letter recipient by name with the greeting that’s most appropriate for your existing relationship.

The importance of names and addressed greetings

We can all recall a time when we felt embarrassed to have forgotten someone’s name. It's an equally uncomfortable feeling when someone who should know your name doesn’t bother to use it. Names are important. Using someone’s name shows that we care and that we are attentive. And the evidence is not just anecdotal – research has shown that humans have a positive neurological reaction upon hearing their own names.

For an executive cover letter, addressing your letter recipient by name (whether that be the hiring manager or someone else) is practically a must. While entry-level applicants might get away with “Dear Hiring Manager,” it’s rather poor form for an executive candidate. It might take some web research or a call to the front office, but it’s a good idea to do the extra legwork to make sure your cover letter is properly addressed.

If for some reason you’re sure you can’t or shouldn’t address the recipient by name, you’ll want to opt for a collective greeting instead. “Dear (Company Name) Hiring Team” or even “Hiring Family” can work well.

Cover letter introduction

In some ways, your introduction is the most important part of your cover letter. If you can’t differentiate yourself and spark a connection, a hiring manager is likely to pass on your application before they even finish reading your opening paragraph. For an executive, this is not the time to play it safe. Keep a professional tone, but lead with your boldest idea, most impressive achievement or better yet, a captivating story that culminates in the success of your vision. Keep the introduction brief so that you can easily lead the reader into the body section.

The goal of this section: Create an interesting and impressive opening sentence that immediately makes you stand out from other candidates and pulls a reader into the rest of your letter.

The resume sample text below jumps right in with a summary of this executive's career including a highlight.

Cover letter middle part (body) 

Your cover letter body section is where you’ll carefully lay out all the reasons why you’re the perfect fit for this particular executive role. Limit yourself to just a handful of your strongest arguments and make sure to back up your achievements with specific numbers, facts or timeframes. This section should contain only the most relevant examples based on the position you’re applying for. The STAR method may be able to help: first list a Situation, then the Task required, your Action and the ensuing positive Result.

For an executive role, your ideas and vision for the future of the company are paramount to the position. Without coming across as condescending or presumptuous, describe your ideas and vision for leading the business forward.

The goal of this section: Lay out your most relevant and impressive achievements using the STAR method, describe your strategies and ideas for future company success.

The bullet points in the cover letter sample text below serve to break up the text and focus attention on big achievements.

How to close an executive cover letter (conclusion and sign-off)

Your cover letter conclusion’s primary job is to house your Call to Action. While this strategy works for candidates of all levels, executive applicants shouldn’t be afraid to be clear about their intentions. Express your enthusiasm for discussing the position further and invite a hiring manager to contact you for an interview. You may even want to leave your contact information again here, space permitting. Don’t forget to thank the reader for their consideration.

Then finish your letter with a signature that matches the tone of your greeting and the rest of your letter. “Sincerely,” “Best regards” and “Warm regards” can all work well.

The goal of this section : Create a clear and confident call to action that invites a hiring manager to contact you for an interview, use a professional and appropriate signature to finish your letter.

The cover letter sample conclusion below explains the applicant's interest in the position and ends with a call to action.

Writing psychology – cover letter tools and strategies

While an executive cover letter will need to be adapted to the exact position, industry and company, there are a few qualities that anyone in a leadership role must express:

• Confidence: Imagine if the passengers found out the captain wasn’t confident about sailing the ship. An executive needs to hold tight at the helm even in stormy weather. Display confidence and know-how in your tone, without braggy unnecessarily.
• Strategy: An executive sees the bigger picture and takes calculated risks to progress the business. Make sure the final body paragraph expresses your vision and plan to ensure growth.
• Teamwork: An executive might be in charge, but that doesn’t mean they work in a bubble. Professional communication and expert listening skills are vital to the success of any upper level employee.
• Management: Great organization skills, an ability to delegate tasks and conflict resolution are the executive’s secrets to minimizing friction within the company. Make sure your cover letter demonstrates how your management style meshes with the business’s goals and needs.

Standard advice for job seekers is to impress recruiters with their achievements by using numbers, facts and figures to show what they can bring to the company. While the same advice certainly applies to executives, there are a few key differences.

First of all, you’re going to be up against plenty of other candidates who possess a laundry list of successes. They will likely layout out their achievements with key bullet points. They will share examples of their impressive work experiences and write with impeccable grammar and spelling. 

If you want to win the job as an executive, you need to go above and beyond. Your cover letter shouldn’t rehash what’s on your resume. It should offer new details and a surprising behind-the-scenes look at how you effectated change. Don’t be afraid to share challenges you faced and the ways in which you overcame them. An executive position is not about being a rote cog in the wheel, it’s about leading the team with charisma and determination. Your executive cover letter should paint you as an individual – someone who fits in with the company but isn’t afraid to pull in a new direction.

The psychological power of storytelling

It’s a well-established fact that humans are hardwired to respond to great storytelling. Advertising agencies have been capitalizing on this fact for years (just think of an old Super Bowl commercial you still remember – it probably has some sort of emotional twist). 

Hiring managers are just as human as anyone else. A cover letter that pulls back the curtain to reveal the secrets of your success can quickly make you the top choice when compared to candidates who churn out profits without a personal connection. Of course, the stories you choose to tell should be favorable, optimistic and relevant for the company’s tone and professionalism. A personal anecdote is usually best placed in the introduction paragraph where it can immediately catch a hiring manager’s attention and differentiate you from the start.

Executive cover letter format and common mistakes

Little errors can spell the demise of any application, but for executive candidates the stakes are much higher. Pay extra attention to avoid these common pitfalls before you submit your cover letter:

• Spelling and grammar mistakes: Typos and incorrect sentence structure are hardly excusable at such a high level. They make a hiring manager wonder if you pay attention to detail or if you can be trusted to communicate professionally once hired. Use spell check rigorously and ask a friend to proofread before you submit.
• Sloppy formatting: Poor visual presentation instantly dashes your credibility and makes you look uninterested in actually landing the position. Go the extra mile by using an expertly-designed template or another professional aid.
• Poor tone: Striking the balance between arrogant and confident can be tricky. And being too modest might give the impression that you lack leadership qualities. Make sure to back up your achievements with numbers and statistics or ask someone you trust to evaluate the tone of your cover letter.
• Generic letter: An uncustomized cover letter full of copy-paste sentences and general qualities will likely do you in before the end of the first paragraph. An executive cover letter needs to show a deep understanding of your potential employer’s challenges, goals and tone from the top of the page right down to the signature.

Key takeaways

• A cover letter is an essential component of any complete executive application since it’s the best place to share the achievements, personality and vision that will help you lead the company forward.
• Your executive cover letter must be well researched and highly tailored for the company’s goals and objectives.
• Make sure to include your perspectives and vision for moving the business forward towards the end of the body section.
• Don’t just recite achievements from your resume – use your cover letter to provide interesting new information, make a personal connection and tell a story about your success.
• Make sure your visual presentation is as sharp as your writing by aligning your cover letter and resume styles.

With resume.io’s advanced tools, you can create a perfect cover letter in no time at all: use our machine-learning writing suggestions, recruiter-approved templates and professional designs to craft your stand-out Executive Pitch!

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CEO & Executive Cover Letter Sample

If you are searching for a job as an executive or CEO, it's important to follow best practices for executive cover letters, including proper formatting and language. Many employers are using applicant tracking systems (ATS) to sort and screen job applications, so using a writing service that specializes in executive cover letters, like TopResume, can ensure your application sails through those systems – and doesn't get tossed in the trash.

CEO & Executive Cover Letter Errors to Eliminate

As you apply to executive or CEO positions, it's important to avoid cover letter mistakes that could ruin your chances. Such errors include:

• Making unsupported claims. It's one thing to claim you're an expert at improving company profit margins and increasing revenue, but it's another to prove it. Do you have the evidence to back up your claims? You should. And it should be in your cover letter.
• It's not addressed to a specific person. Always do some digging so you can address your cover letter to a specific person. Avoid addressing your executive cover letter with “to whom it may concern” – this is an immediate red flag that you didn't take the time to research the target company.
• It's selfish. What's in it for the employer? How would hiring you benefit their company? Those are the questions your cover letter and resume should clearly answer, rather than strictly talking yourself up.
• It rambles. When applying to an executive or CEO role, it's likely you have many years of experience. However if your cover letter is borderline novel-length, it's too long. Your cover letter should be no longer than a page. Ideally, it should be somewhere between three to four paragraphs.

Do you have the cover letter that will avoid the trash pile and get you the interview? You can. Two of our resume packages (Career Evolution and Executive Priority) include cover letter writing. We guarantee you'll get 2x more job interviews within 60 days or we'll rewrite your resume for free.

The better the cover letter, the more likely the interview. Use our executive cover letter writing service today!

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• Executive/CEO
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3 Executive Cover Letter Examples Making Waves in 2024

• Executive Cover Letter
• Executive Director Cover Letter
• Sales Executive Cover Letter
• Write Your Executive Cover Letter

You’re a well-versed leader who can set company goals and strategies in the right direction. Financial statements are analyzed, processes are improved, and meetings are led effectively with you on the executive leadership team.

Did you write a cover letter to complement your executive resume and show you have the right business sense for the job?

Every company goes through a careful selection process when hiring executives. If you’re wondering how to stand out, our executive cover letter examples and AI cover letter generator will provide a great template for success.

Executive Cover Letter Example

USE THIS TEMPLATE

Microsoft Word

Google Docs

Block Format

Copy this text for your executive cover letter!

123 Fictional Avenue Denver, CO 80201 (123) 456-7890

October 30, 2023

Abigail Clark DISH Network Corporation 123 Fictional Lane Denver, CO 80201

Dear Ms. Clark:

I’m unequivocally drawn to DISH Network Corporation’s commitment to providing innovative entertainment and communication solutions. My unquenchable thirst for grappling with unfamiliar challenges makes the chief executive officer position an exceptional match for my skill set. In independent and collaborative settings, I’m at ease taking charge and leveraging feedback data to shape strategic decisions.

My tenure as chief financial officer at Ready Foods sharpened my financial analysis skills. By enforcing budget constraints and optimizing resource allocation, I effectively drove costs down by 18%, leading to improved profits and healthier financial standing for the company.

As a project management officer at Salem Media Group, I steered an initiative to digitize our broadcast services. Capitalizing on advanced project management software, I ensured the seamless transition of our services to a digital platform. This initiative increased our viewership by approximately 12% and advertising revenues by 22%.

Through market research and analysis during my tenure at Xfinity, I identified untapped regions in Denver, leading to an expansion strategy that increased the subscriber base by 36.8%. I supported this growth by implementing new quality control procedures to effectively manage the influx of new demands.

Given the opportunity to serve as the CEO of DISH Network, I’m excited by the possibilities that merging my skills with the company’s vision can unfold. Leveraging these experiences, I’m enthusiastic about piloting DISH to nurture ventures like Dish Wireless and explore new opportunities in the entertainment landscape. Looking forward to discussing how my leadership and drive can elevate DISH Network’s standing in the competitive broadcasting market. Thank you for considering my application.

Enclosures: Resume Application 2 letters of recommendation Academic transcript

Why this cover letter works

• Choose something professional and modern with a perfect balance between visual appeal and word delivery. Overly flashy graphics can distract from your narration, though.

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Executive Director Cover Letter Example

Copy this text for your executive director cover letter!

123 Fictional Avenue Washington, DC 20001 (123) 456-7890

Jackson Rodriguez The Urban Institute 123 Fictional Lane Washington, DC 20001

Dear Mr. Rodriguez:

As an enthusiast in data analytics and IT infrastructure, I derive joy from delving into complex troves of data and streamlining IT processes during my weekdays while also immersing myself in the unfolding tech narrative of Washington, DC, outside work hours. Balancing a career built on enhancing operational efficacy with my deep-rooted interest in data privacy and compliance, I’m keen to bring my expertise to the executive director role at The Urban Institute.

An IT manager role at TechFlow sharpened my database management and IT infrastructure proficiency. My tenure witnessed the implementation of a novel cloud-computing architecture that saw a 17% decrease in inoperability incidents.

At another Washington DC institution, SecureData, I excelled in ensuring data privacy and compliance. I introduced a multi dimensional protection plan with automation tools that decreased security breaches by a promising 8%. I also initiated robust GDPR compliance, securing a 79% consent response rate, surpassing our goal of 72%.

Beyond technical expertise, I successfully managed a team of IT professionals at TechFlow and SecureData. By leaning into my leadership role, I inspired my team to exceed their potential, improving IT service delivery by 6% and 12%, respectively.

My affinity for problem-solving and broad-spectrum IT skills can be valuable for your team. I’m eager to see how my unique perspective and hands-on approach can advance your organization’s vision. Thank you.

Gabriel Santos

Sales Executive Cover Letter Example

Copy this text for your sales executive cover letter!

123 Fictional Avenue Memphis, TN 38101 (123) 456-7890

Emily Lewis FedEx Corporation 123 Fictional Lane Memphis, TN 38101

Dear Ms. Lewis:

I’m captivated by FedEx Corporation’s dedication to creating seamless and efficient experiences, demonstrated by your unwavering reputation for exceptional customer service. Your team excels at forging comprehensive global connections and has shaped today’s fast-paced logistics industry. As an ardent pursuer of customer-centric sales strategies, I thrive on harnessing the power of data-driven insights and cutting-edge approaches when I’m not exploring the vibrant Memphis business scene. These passions, combined with my professional experiences, fuel my excitement to contribute as a sales executive within your distinguished corporation.

During my tenure at Smith & Nephew, the sales account manager role allowed me to fine-tune my sales analytics skillset. Deploying CRM systems and leveraging data-driven insights enabled me to grow our client base by 12% and improve sales conversion rates by 8%.

Within Grizzly Sales Force, another Memphis enterprise, I laid the groundwork for my competency in social selling. The production and execution of creative LinkedIn campaigns saw our company’s lead generation surge by 14% and website traffic grow by 22.7%.

Serving as a sales team leader at Neon Canvas unveiled my proficiency in managing sales funnels for enhanced client relationships and deal closures. By revamping our existing sales pipeline and further optimizing the standard lead scoring system, we witnessed a 7% surge in average deal size and a 19% reduction in sales cycle time.

My unwavering passion for sales, fortified by my diverse skills, can champion FedEx Corporation’s ambitious growth objectives. I’m eager to discuss how my sales acumen and accomplishments align with your vision, offering a chance to contribute to your success. Thank you for considering my application.

Zainab Khan

• Fortify your sales executive cover letter with quantified facts to prove your sales prowess and that you’re a force to be reckoned with when it comes to spurring profit growth. Examples include “drove costs down by 18%” and “increased the subscriber base by 36.8%.”

Related cover letter examples

• Executive Resume
• Executive Assistant
• Office Manager

How to Write an Executive Cover Letter That Stands Out

Standing out as an executive requires more than just presenting the analytical and leadership skills that will help you succeed. It’s also important to show how you’ll fit in with the company culture and help them achieve their mission.

The best way to optimize is to review the job description to identify the company’s goals and the essential skills they seek. That way, whether the company needs help with strategic planning or creating a team-focused environment, you can write a custom cover letter that grabs their attention.

Catch attention with the greeting and intro of your executive cover letter

When leading a meeting, you’d want to start with key information that grabs employees’ attention and relates directly to their needs. You can do the same in your executive cover letter to get off to an excellent start.

That usually includes two things. The first is addressing someone by name if you can find a hiring manager listed in the job description or company website.

Then, you’ll want to craft an intro paragraph directly related to the company’s needs and mission. For example, how you’ll use your abilities in management information systems to help the business achieve a data-driven and efficient work environment.

The opener below falls a bit short on that since it doesn’t get into enough detail about the skills that will make the applicant a great fit for the account executive role.

Try to get more specific than this!

Hello Mr. Brenton,

I’m pleased to be applying for your account executive job opening. With years of management experience under my belt, I think my skills will make me a great fit for your needs.

The opener below does a much better job of showing how the applicant fits in with DISH Network’s strategic leadership needs while relating to their mission of innovative entertainment solutions.

A highly specific opener for the win!

Dear Ms. Clark,

I’m unequivocally drawn to DISH Network Corporation’s commitment to providing innovative entertainment and communication solutions. My unquenchable thirst for grappling with unfamiliar challenges makes the chief executive officer position an exceptional match for my skill set. In independent and collaborative settings, I’m at ease taking charge and leveraging feedback data to shape strategic decisions.

Provide more evidence of your skills in the body of your executive cover letter

Once you have the hiring manager’s attention, it’s time to show why you’re the best fit for the executive position with data-based examples of past achievements.

One of the best ways to do that is leveraging the numbers you know companies care about the most, like costs saved or increases in conversion rates.

It’ll also be important to show how you’ve led teams, such as providing employees with coaching to boost productive efficiency.

A great body paragraph showcasing leadership skills!

Make a lasting impact with the closing of your executive cover letter

As you close out your executive cover letter, it’ll be important to think about what elements will make a lasting impact on hiring managers as they decide on applicants to bring in for an interview.

One of the best ways to optimize will be relating back to key skills and elements of the company mission you emphasized. For instance, how your e-commerce management skills will help create a top-notch online shopping experience for customers.

It’s also an excellent idea to close out by thanking the hiring manager for their time and ending with a light CTA, just like you’d do when trying to boost conversions on a sales page.

The closer below is missing many of those details since they don’t give enough information about their executive leadership skills or use a CTA.

Include more details than this!

Overall, I believe my years of sales experience will make me a great fit for the position. Thank you for considering my application for your sales executive role.

Vincent Benjamin

The closer below does a much better job relating to a hands-on approach and problem-solving skills aligning with the company’s culture and mission.

A well-rounded closer relating to company needs!

My affinity for problem-solving and broad-spectrum IT skills can be valuable for your team. I’m eager to see how my unique perspective and hands-on approach can advance your organization’s vision. Thank you.

Executive Cover Letter Mistakes to Avoid

• You’re operating on a high level here as an executive, so you’ll sound much more professional and confident if you establish a personal connection with the company’s vision. Immediately showing that you understand their values solidifies your preparedness to improve things as a decision-maker.
• At an executive level, your cover letter simply can’t afford to go without quantifiable, solid measurements of the professional impact you’ve made during your career. With each example or accomplishment, seek to include a strong metric that backs it up. What ROI improvements have you made? By what percentage did you enhance customer engagement by approving the right projects with high-level market knowledge and agility?
• Again, it’s time to get specific and indisputable about those achievements you worked so hard for, or else they might fall flat. Concisely state the business factors that drove your decisions in past roles, and don’t be afraid to list those previous employers by name.
• While you’re applying as an executive and have worked with many other high-level professionals as your peers, you don’t want to drop formality (or, worse—sound like you’re “talking down” to) your reader. Your writing tone should be highly professional and convey confidence in your abilities to boost KPIs and improve performance, but present your abilities tastefully.
• While many of your qualifications speak for themselves, you still want to express your interest in the job and include a call to action. Invite questions and offer to provide more details on your candidacy or alignment with their mission statement.
• Your examples and success stories should directly apply to how you can improve things where you’re going. Be careful about your writing tone, and make sure you aren’t crafting a letter about how the company can make things better for you!

Every company will be seeking different skills from executives and have a unique work culture. Writing a custom cover letter for each role will show your passion for their mission and how specific job skills like business intelligence or change management will help them achieve their goals.

The best way to optimize the tone of your executive cover letter is to review the job description and try to match the tone they use. For instance, if they use a formal and educated tone, you can match that and show why you’re the knowledgeable leader who’s right for the company’s culture while helping them boost conversions during client acquisition.

Aim for around three to five skills you emphasize that are highly relevant to company needs. For instance, if the company wants you to be proficient in business intelligence, you can explain how your skills in Microsoft Power BI will be an excellent fit for their data analytics system.