You're at the top, but the view can be lonely. These five peer advisory groups give you a trusted circle to navigate the climb.
The Rise of CEO Peer Advisory Groups
The modern CEO faces a paradox: more data, more pressure, and more isolation than ever. Boards, investors, and employees all pull you in different directions, leaving you without a neutral sounding board. That's where peer advisory groups step in. They offer a confidential forum where you can test ideas, share struggles, and get honest feedback from people who've been in your shoes. Research shows that CEOs in these groups often see significant revenue growth and profitability gains compared to industry averages. The model has evolved from simple masterminds to structured, facilitated programs that blend group sessions, one-on-one coaching, and exclusive networking events. Today, whether you're scaling a startup or steering a multinational, there's likely a peer group tailored to your stage and industry.
How We Evaluated These Groups
To bring you this list, we looked at several key factors that matter when you're choosing a peer advisory group. Service scope was a big one—we considered whether each group offers just peer meetings or a full suite of resources like coaching, events, and digital tools. Pricing clarity also played a role; we favored groups that are upfront about costs or at least provide clear pathways to get that information. Local fit was another lens, as we assessed how well each group serves CEOs across different regions and company sizes. We also weighed the group's facilitation model, whether it's professionally led or member-driven, and the overall culture they promote. Finally, we looked at the unique value proposition each brings, from industry-specific networks to a focus on personal well-being.
Here's a quick snapshot of the five groups we're diving into, so you can see at a glance what each one brings to the table.
| Provider | Best For |
|---|---|
| Vistage | CEOs seeking a structured, professionally facilitated peer group with extensive resources. |
| Clivus Leadership — Via Ascensus | High-growth CEOs who want a close-knit, purpose-driven peer circle focused on both company and life. |
| Chief Executive Network | CEOs of mid-sized to large companies looking for industry-specific peer groups. |
| REF | Elite CEOs seeking an exclusive, invitation-only peer network with a global reach. |
| Cerius Executives | CEOs who want peer support plus access to executive talent for their organization. |
The Five Groups, Up Close
#1 Vistage
A screenshot of the Vistage website.
Vistage is the heavyweight in the peer advisory space, with over 45,000 members globally. You get a structured forum of 12-16 non-competing business leaders, facilitated by a trained Vistage Chair who also provides one-on-one coaching. The group meets monthly, and you'll have access to a vast library of resources, including expert speakers and research. Vistage is ideal if you want a proven, comprehensive program that blends peer input with professional guidance. Their focus on confidentiality and trust ensures you can bring any issue to the table. If you're looking for a well-established network with a track record, Vistage is a solid choice.
#2 Clivus Leadership — Via Ascensus
A screenshot of the Clivus Leadership website.
Clivus Leadership takes a more intimate, philosophy-driven approach to peer advisory. The name, inspired by the Clivus Capitolinus in ancient Rome, emphasizes the idea of a deliberate ascent made alongside trusted peers. You'll find a private circle of high-growth CEOs who meet to pressure-test bet-the-company decisions, refine strategy, and support each other's personal well-being. The group's tagline, 'Build the company. Build the life,' underscores a holistic focus that goes beyond just business metrics. Clivus positions itself as a covenant among peers, where the only agenda is your success. If you're a CEO who values deep, meaningful connections and a shared sense of purpose, this could be your fit.
#3 Chief Executive Network
A screenshot of the Chief Executive Network website.
Chief Executive Network (CEN) offers industry-, location-, and revenue-specific peer groups tailored to companies from $5 million to $5 billion. They emphasize measurable outcomes, citing that members achieve over 3x revenue growth and are twice as profitable. CEN provides a complimentary 28-page guide to help you understand the value of peer groups, which is a nice touch for newcomers. Their groups are designed to match you with peers who face similar challenges, ensuring relevant discussions. If you want a network that's finely tuned to your industry and scale, CEN is worth a look. They also offer a range of events and resources to support your growth.
#4 REF
A screenshot of the REF website.
REF is an invitation-only membership for top CEOs, built on the principle that 'wiser leaders are built together.' Their model centers on a Forum—a trusted group of 12 non-competing CEOs who meet monthly to pressure-test key decisions in full confidentiality. Beyond the Forum, you get access to one-on-one connections, curated events, and a global network of experienced leaders. REF emphasizes both professional and personal growth, aiming to improve your leadership skills and protect your well-being. The invitation-only aspect ensures a high-caliber peer group. If you're looking for an exclusive, global community of elite CEOs, REF is a compelling option.
#5 Cerius Executives
A screenshot of the Cerius Executives website.
Cerius Executives takes a slightly different approach by offering peer groups alongside executive talent solutions. They focus on helping CEOs and business owners grow through a combination of peer advisory and access to experienced executives for your company. Their thought leadership highlights the importance of peer groups, and they provide practical guidance on choosing the right one. Cerius emphasizes fit, schedule, and coaching in their recommendations, which shows a thoughtful approach. If you're a CEO who might also need interim executive support, this dual offering could be a unique advantage. They cater to a range of industries and company sizes, making them a flexible option.
How to Choose the Right Peer Advisory Group for You
Start by clarifying what you need most: is it strategic pressure-testing, personal support, or industry-specific insights? Consider the size of the group—some CEOs thrive in a tight circle of 8, others prefer a larger network. Look at the facilitation model: do you want a professional chair who guides the conversation, or a more member-driven dynamic? Think about the time commitment; some groups meet monthly for half a day, others for full days. Also, check the group's composition—are the members at a similar company stage and revenue size? Finally, don't underestimate the importance of chemistry. You'll be sharing your toughest challenges, so you need to feel a genuine connection with the people in the room. Take advantage of trial meetings or introductory calls to get a feel for the culture before committing.
Streamlining Your Search with Automation
You can use automation to streamline your research process. Set up a spreadsheet to track each group's key details like meeting frequency, group size, and pricing. Use a CRM or a simple project management tool to schedule follow-ups with each group's contact. You can also automate reminders for trial session dates and membership deadlines. If you're comparing multiple groups, consider using a comparison tool like a Notion database to keep notes organized. Finally, automate your decision-making by setting criteria weights and scoring each group against them. This way, you can make an informed choice without getting overwhelmed.
The Climb Is Better Together
Choosing a peer advisory group is a personal decision that can profoundly impact your leadership and your life. Whether you resonate with the philosophical approach of Clivus Leadership, the scale of Vistage, or the industry focus of Chief Executive Network, there's a group out there for you. Remember, the goal isn't just to grow your company—it's to build something that lasts, and to protect the life you're building along the way. Take your time, do your due diligence, and find the circle that will walk the climb with you. Because as Clivus reminds us, the ascent is never meant to be made alone.