Consider one of the greatest businesses in the world after decades of mismanagement. Growth is tepid, at best, and has been fuelled largely by debt. The organisation’s systems and infrastructure are outdated. International competitors have taken advantage of its weak position and stolen market share. A proxy contest is looming. The chief executive is about to step down, and the board and shareholders are faced with a decision about leadership. Who should they appoint? What qualities should they seek?
想象一家经历了数十年管理不善的世界最伟大企业之一。其增长充其量是不温不火,而且主要靠债务推动。这个组织的系统和基础设施已经过时。国际竞争对手利用其弱势地位夺取市场份额。一场代理权争夺战正在临近。首席执行官即将下台,董事会和股东面临有关领导者的选择。他们应该任命谁?他们应该在领导者身上寻求什么样的特质?