Best advice: "Your job has got to be right for you, and it has to be fun -- if not, then move on," says Modjtabai. She also recommends taking chances on people and on yourself. "Be open to any opportunity," she says. "Remember that leaders are only as good as the team, so investing in building a high performing team is always the right answer." Good people are critical to an organization, adds Modjtabai.

Skills you need: "I consider myself more of a general manager rather than a technology manager, so the skills are those core management disciplines that are common to most businesses and functions," says Modjtabai. "You need core leadership skills, especially communication skills, and above all the ability to listen and value diversity in building high-performing teams."

Degrees you should go for: An MBA is one option, says Modjtabai. But, she says, the degree is by no means required to get a rich, diverse set of professional experiences and contacts.

Where you should start: "There are no right or wrong places to start. It has to feel right for you," says Modjtabai. Career experts recommend starting in a junior role in the industry in which you hope to climb the ladder.

Salary Range: Salary.com lists a range of US$158,955 to $351,296 base salary plus bonus for a CIO in California; executive vice presidents will earn US$124,031 to $379,740 plus bonuses, according to Salary.com.