How many years of experience do you need to be a VP?

Question

Zippia Team · Accepted Answer

You need five or more years of experience to be a VP. To become a vice president (VP), you'll need to work your way up the corporate ladder and demonstrate you have the expertise and industry experience that this role requires.

The road to VP starts at lower-level management or supervisory positions. While educational credentials can help you land an entry-level job, being promoted to VP comes from experience, not education. After all, a VP role is for a highly-skilled industry professional capable of providing management and oversight and demonstrating a commitment to excellence at all times.

Not surprising that one of the most important VP qualifications is having several years of relevant managerial experience. Most employers expect candidates to have at least five years of experience working as high-level managers. A successful candidate, for example, might have experience as a department head or other executive.

As you gain experience in the industry, you can also make important connections and learn new things that help you succeed in a corporate vice president role.