HBR IdeaCast The Rise and Fall of Carlos Ghosn: Part 2
Jun 10, 2021
In this insightful conversation, Andy Palmer, a former Nissan executive, shares his firsthand experience under the leadership of Carlos Ghosn. He reflects on the excitement of Ghosn's initial success and subsequent decline. Topics include Ghosn's controversial compensation and its clash with Japanese corporate culture, as well as the challenges of balancing dual CEO roles at Renault and Nissan. Palmer also discusses the intricate power dynamics and cultural resistance Ghosn faced in steering both companies through turbulent times.
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Ghosn's Grand Entrance
- At the 2007 Tokyo Motor Show, Carlos Ghosn drove onto the stage in a new sports car to deliver a captivating presentation.
- He launched five new car models in about eight minutes, showcasing his dynamism and Nissan's innovation.
Crafting Ghosn's Voice
- Ghosn's speechwriter, John Harris, had to adapt to Ghosn's precise language, avoiding superlatives and embracing a Latinate style.
- Harris also had to account for Ghosn's fast speaking pace, aiming for 130 words per minute instead of his usual 170.
Ghosn's Cultural Shift at Nissan
- Ghosn's leadership revitalized Nissan, fostering a new generation of managers and shifting the company culture.
- He changed the official language to English and recruited talent internationally, modernizing the company.
