Profiles In Leadership - Taking The Right Steps

emphasized collaboration, promoted vulnerability among leaders, and prioritized empathy in decision-making. Instead of pursuing quick wins, Nadella committed to fostering long-term cultural change. He led by example, demonstrating humility and curiosity, and empowered leaders at all levels to embrace these behaviors. Over time, Microsoft’s culture evolved, allowing the company to be more innovative and customer-focused. This transformation was crucial to Microsoft’s resurgence as a market leader. Case Study Resource: Case study: Satya Nadella’s leadership at Microsoft. (n.d.). https://www.iosrjournals.org/iosr-jbm/papers/Vol26 issue12/Ser-2/I2612027479.pdf When Howard Schultz returned as CEO of Starbucks in 2008, the company was struggling with declining performance and a culture that had drifted from its core values. Schultz recognized that to rebuild the brand, he needed to focus on reigniting the company’s cultural foundation. Schultz temporarily closed all U.S. stores to retrain baristas in coffee-making, a symbolic gesture that reinforces Starbucks’ commitment to quality and care. He also emphasized the well-being of employees, calling them “partners” and providing benefits such as stock options and healthcare. Case Study 2: Howard Schultz and Starbucks

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