As a CEO reviewing an employment contract, there are several key terms and clauses that I would pay close attention to. These terms help ensure clarity, fairness, and legal compliance in the employment relationship. Here are the top key terms I would focus on:

1. Job Title and Description: Ensure that the contract clearly states the employee's job title, responsibilities, reporting structure, and any specific duties or expectations.

2. Compensation and Benefits: Review details about the employee's salary or wages, payment frequency, bonuses, commissions, stock options, benefits (such as healthcare, retirement plans), and any other forms of compensation.

3. Term of Employment: Determine whether the employment is at-will or for a specific term. Clarify the start date, end date (if applicable), and any conditions for renewal or termination.

4. Work Schedule and Location: Confirm the standard work hours, workdays, remote work arrangements (if applicable), and the primary work location. Address any travel or relocation requirements.

5. Confidentiality and Non-Disclosure: Ensure that the contract includes confidentiality obligations to protect sensitive company information, trade secrets, and intellectual property. Outline any non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) that the employee must adhere to during and after employment.

6. Intellectual Property Rights: Specify ownership and rights related to intellectual property created during the employee's tenure. This includes inventions, patents, copyrights, trademarks, and proprietary information.

7. Non-Compete and Non-Solicitation: If applicable, include clauses regarding non-compete agreements (restricting the employee's ability to work for competitors) and non-solicitation (preventing the employee from poaching clients or employees).

8. Termination Clause: Define the circumstances under which either party can terminate the employment relationship, including notice periods, severance pay (if any), and grounds for termination (such as misconduct or performance issues).

9. Dispute Resolution: Specify the procedures for resolving disputes, including whether disputes will be handled through arbitration, mediation, or litigation, and the governing law.

10. Compliance with Laws and Policies: Ensure that the contract complies with relevant labor laws, anti-discrimination laws, immigration laws (if applicable), and company policies regarding conduct, ethics, and compliance.

11. Governing Law and Jurisdiction: Identify the governing law (the legal framework that governs the contract) and the jurisdiction (the location where legal disputes will be heard).

12. Severability: Include a severability clause that states if any part of the contract is found to be unenforceable, the remaining provisions will still be valid and enforceable.

These key terms provide a comprehensive overview of the important aspects to consider when reviewing an employment contract as a CEO. It's crucial to ensure that the contract protects the interests of both the company and the employee while complying with legal requirements and promoting a positive working relationship.