Senior CV: how to showcase 20+ years of experience

Introduction

After 20 years of career, your CV requires a different approach. Here is how to showcase your experience without appearing "dated."

Challenges for senior profiles

Age discrimination

Unfortunately real, but can be overcome with the right positioning.

CV too long

A tendency to list everything since the start of your career.

Obsolete technologies

Mentioning outdated tools can hurt.

Optimal structure

Length

2 pages maximum. 3 pages exceptionally for highly technical or academic profiles.

What to keep?

• Last 15 years in detail
• Before that: summary in 2-3 lines

What to remove?

• Student jobs
• Obsolete technologies (unless specifically requested)
• Irrelevant experience

Modernize the presentation

Layout

• Contemporary design
• Modern fonts (Inter, Roboto)
• Avoid dated templates

Personal information

• Remove the year of birth
• Keep email, phone, LinkedIn
• Recent and professional photo

Vocabulary

Avoid:

• "20 years of experience" -> "Deep expertise"
• "Senior" -> "Expert" or "Specialist"
• Dead technologies

Highlight senior strengths

Leadership

Quantify your managerial responsibilities:
"Led a team of 25 people across 3 countries"

Strategic vision

Show the business impact:
"Defined the digital strategy that generated +40% in revenue"

Stability

Employers appreciate loyalty:
"8-year progression at X, from consultant to director"

Network

Showcase your industry connections.

Mentoring

"Trained and mentored 15 future managers"

Staying current

Recent training

List certifications from the last 5 years.

Technology awareness

Show your adaptability:
"Led the transition to generative AI in 2023"

Digital presence

Active and professional LinkedIn profile.

Mistakes to avoid

1. Email @hotmail.com or @aol.com
2. Mentioning Windows 95
3. Photo from the 2000s
4. "References available upon request" (outdated)
5. Generic objective

Senior profile summary example

Director of Operations | 18 years of pharmaceutical industry experience

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Expert in production chain optimization and digital transformation. Leadership of international teams (100+ people). Track record of cost reductions (15-25%) and quality improvement (FDA, EMA certifications).

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Key skills: Lean Manufacturing, Industry 4.0, SAP S/4HANA, Multicultural management

Conclusion

Experience is a major asset when presented well. Modernize your CV and highlight your strategic value.