What Motivates Nortel's CEO?
The more I listen to Nortel Networks CEO Bill Owens, the more I believe he likes being king. He enjoys leading a major multi-national company, much like he must have liked being a U.S. Navy Admiral. Indications he is reluctant to give up the reigns to Gary Daichendt or anyone else any time soon are become increasingly apparent. If Owens makes some bonus money and a few million dollars along the way before he retires, he'll be happy but I really believe he's more motivated by having the corner office and the respect of being a big-time CEO. Here's a quote from Owens from the AGM that illustrates my point: “I like being the CEO of this company. I was in the military for 30 years and I did not make a lot of money. I was dedicated to that, I am dedicated to this.” By the way, Owens said he's a healthy, enthusiastic 65-year-old who plans to stick around as CEO until it is “time for someone [else] to lead the company forward.” In the meantime, he's looking to hire a new COO to replace Gary Daichendt.
June 29th, 2005 at 2:55 pm
You're awesome
June 29th, 2005 at 4:31 pm
Listening to Big Bad Bill Owens speak at an event is like listening to someone that is still being convinced that technology is important. Nortel is a great place to have him - who needs a router that actually works.
July 1st, 2005 at 3:20 am
Will there be more perspective from you re. what happened at the AGM? Thanks.