Traits CEOs and Executives Look for When They Hire

You may or may not be in the market for a new job. Yet, what executives look for when they staff their organizations suggests as much about the priorities and personalities as the new hire’s own. So if you intend to set up a strategic partnership with them, sell to them, socialize with them, or work for them, learning what they value never hurts.

Richard Branson, founder of Virgin Group, says that he looks for “personality or passion.” Angela Ahrendts, senior vice president of Apple Retail...