The New CEO

Introduction

If you are reading this book as a newly announced or appointed CEO, congratulations!

You are about to embark on something that only a very small percentage of the population ever gets to experience—to lead an organization and all of the people who call it theirs.

Perhaps you're already in the role. Perhaps you're getting ready to start. It may be your first time being a CEO. It may be your third. But whatever your circumstances, this is a time of great celebration.

This moment is about recognizing years of hard work and ambition (and, I'm sure, a fair bit of sacrifice along the way). It's a time when you are at your most energized to execute your vision of a brighter future for your organization. And, of course, for you and your family, too.

Enjoy this feeling. You've earned it. And the reality is that you'll need to keep returning to this place when times get tough. Commonly, that is a when, not an if.

Much of what they say about the CEO role is true: it's complex, confusing, and often exhausting. This is the most challenging and loneliest role in business (just how lonely is often what takes CEOs by surprise). The scope, gravity, responsibility, accountability, and exposure of the CEO role are unparalleled.

I probably don't need to remind you that, as CEO, you're not only responsible for your organization's strategy, but also for its financial viability, and long-term sustainability. You're also responsible for the livelihood of its employees (and their families), ...