Many 'how-to measure a stock' stories tell you to form your estimate of how capable leadership is. As a guy that had many leaders in a long career it seems easier said than done. I had some great bosses, but some doosies too. Some of them talked a good game, and inspired some content but in the end were found wanting. We watch the CEOs take the stage, and more than a few come off 'campaign shouting like a Southern diplomat' [Thank you, Charles Berry.] Some cause you to wonder if they will ever have any idea about what goes on at the front lines. With tentative intention I read a recent Barron's article on Top CEOs of 2024, looking for the characteristics they see in winning CEOs, making a list, and posting it here. Having been an editor who took part in such projects, I know what goes on in the backroom of these projects. Not saying it is pay for play. Am saying it gets a little arbitrary, and some practical doses of sarcasm help you get through to the deadline.
Able CEO Traits
Drumroll: ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Identifies and adapts to new innovations
Adjusts to missteps [see photo of bridge failure above]
Creates new revenue streams
Attracts new customer
Successfully manages margins
Achieves steady market-share gains
Improves Net income and Operating Margins
Grows earnings per share
Successfully exploits data analytics
Inspires and relates to all staff - forges a positive corporate culture
Pays down debt
Gets good press
Nurtures higher-return assets
Seeks profitable alliances
Rather than list what the incapable CEO trats are, I will link to a David Letterman Top 10 list of yore.
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