The Effects of Functional Background Experience, Industry Experience, Generic Executive Management Experience on Perceived Environmental Uncertainty and Firm Performance (Chief Executive Officers‪)‬

ABSTRACT Fifty-eight CEOs of publicly traded corporations in the pharmaceutical, semiconductor, and natural gas industries responded to a survey to determine the effect of management characteristics on perceived environmental uncertainty (PEU) and firm performance. Results suggest little connection between the management characteristics of functional background experience, industry experience, and generic management experience on PEU. However, significant findings indicate that executive-level management experience may affect return on assets (ROA). Results carry implications for CEO selection and career planning.