A panel discussion with Professor Nitin Nohria Monday, October 13, 2008

The panelists reflect on important leadership lessons they have learned and how to apply these lessons in times of crisis.

Jaime Augusto Zobel de Ayala Chairman & CEO, Ayala Corporation

Jamie Dimon Chairman & CEO, JPMorgan Chase & Company

Orit Gadiesh Chairman and CEO, Bain & Company, Inc.

G. Richard Wagoner Chairman and CEO, General Motors Corporation

Amid the unexpected and unprecedented financial crisis, this panel was generally confident about the long-term economic prospects for the country and the world. While a recession appears certain, there continue to be pockets of economic strength, innovation and entrepreneurialism abound, and at its core, America is a resilient and optimistic country.

What is desperately needed is leadership. This includes leadership in the near term to restore confidence in the economic system, and longer-term leadership in areas such as the environment. The key traits that leaders require include vision, integrity, decisiveness, accountability, great communication skills, and an ability to inspire others.
Context

In responding to questions from Charlie Rose, this panel of recipients of the 2008 HBS Alumni Achievement Award covered a broad range of issues including the current financial crisis, the changing relationship between business and government, and the key elements of effective leadership.

Source:
http://www.hbs.edu/centennial/businesssummit/leadership/leadership.html