> Of course, and the ones who gather and analyze the data tend to be well paid too, for the same reason. But turning data into strategic decisions is an important skill, and one a CEO is expected to have.

Only the top layer is well paid.

People produce, collect, and analyse data throughout the organisation. As the data passes up through the hierarchy, management bureaucrats present it as their own to the next level up, thus using people's work to justify their own higher salaries.

That goes on for O(log n) levels and ends with the CEO doing the same.

I think most good decisions I've ever seen a CEO make have already been made inofficially at the lower ends of the organisation. Or at least would have, had the lower ends had access to the relevant information.

Of course, the CEO wants to keep the relevant information to themselves, because again, that's how they justify their salary.

> So, why don't you apply as CEO instead of as a software engineer if you want the big fat pay? If you can show the board that you are the best suited for the job, they will hire you.

My experience is that these jobs generally go to the well-connected and politically affluent in the right circles. It has little to do with suitability or skill.