2011 begins with 96 CEO exits

While chief executive officer turnover declined in January, several prominent firms, including Google, eHarmony and Advanced Micro Devices, were among those announcing leadership changes during the month, a CEO job survey shows. 

A total of 96 CEO changes were announced by U.S.-based companies in January, down nine percent from 107 in December, according to the latest CEO turnover report Wednesday by global outplacement consultant Challenger, Gray & Christmas Inc.

The January total was eight percent higher than the same month a year ago when 89 CEO departures were announced.

Approximately one-third (31) of January departures were resignations.  Another 25 CEOs stepped down, but remain with the company as a member of the board or in some other capacity.

The government and non-profit sector led all industries in CEO turnover with 12 changes in January.  The financial sector and health care sector each saw nine CEOs leave their post.