Skip to main content

Secrets of the superbosses

Sep 28 2003 by Brian Amble
Print This Article

What is it that makes a successful chief executive? The Sunday Times has trawled through its archives to draw up a profile of the composite chief executive.

What they come up with is "a middle-aged man on his second marriage to a younger wife" who lives in Kensington, drives a Mercedes, starts the day early and is keen on early workouts in the gym or the pool.

But while some superbosses work 18 hour days, the Sunday Times reckons that there is only a shaky correlation between long hours and financial rewards. As computer magnate Michael Dell pointed out, "when you’re working, there’s a real law of diminishing returns. You go beyond a certain point and your effectiveness disappears."

Sunday Times | Creating the ultimate superboss

Related Categories

Latest book reviews

MORE BOOK REVIEWS

Super Adaptability: How to Transcend in an Age of Overwhelm

Super Adaptability: How to Transcend in an Age of Overwhelm

Max McKeown

Max Mckeown's heavyweight new book draws from neuroscience, psychology and cultural evolution to develop a practical framework for human adaptability. It might also help you move from paralysis into abundance

Hone - How Purposeful Leaders Defy Drift

Hone - How Purposeful Leaders Defy Drift

Geoff Tuff and Steven Goldbach

In a business landscape obsessed with transformation and disruption, Hone offers a refreshingly counterintuitive approach to today's organisational challenges.

Relationship Currency

Relationship Currency

Ravi Rajani

In an era where AI can draft emails and manage our schedules, 'Relationship Currency' is a timely reminder of the importance of investing in genuine human connection.