the 6 layers isn't really true, in part due to line managers can manage 15-30 people. If everyone is doing the same job that is fairly rote a single line manager can handle a lot of people, reducing layers. Additional CEOs tend to have a lot of direct reports.
Sample Example
(0 Layer) CEO --> 10 Direct reports is typical for large publicly traded companies.
Sample Example
(0 Layer) CEO --> 10 Direct reports is typical for large publicly traded companies.
(1 Layer) C-Level --> 6-8 (10,000 / 8 --> 1,250)
(2 Layer) SVP / VP -- > 6-8 (1250 / 6 --> ~200)
(3 Layer) Middle management (200/ 6 --> ~30)
(4 Layer) Line managers (1-25)