HBR On Leadership 3 Types of Executive Team Dysfunction
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Jul 30, 2025 
Thomas Keil, a management professor from the University of Zurich, and Marianna Zangrillo, a partner at The Next Advisors, share insights from their extensive research on executive teams. They reveal three dysfunctional patterns: shark tanks, petting zoos, and mediocracies. The duo discusses how these dynamics hinder performance and share strategies for improvement, such as fostering open dialogue and ensuring role clarity. Discover why teams that seem harmonious might actually be stifling innovation and the vital role of leadership in overcoming these challenges.
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Three Dysfunction Patterns
- Leadership teams often suffer from one of three dysfunction patterns: shark tanks, petting zoos, or mediocracies.
- Each pattern represents extreme competition, excessive conflict avoidance, or complacency, respectively, impacting team effectiveness heavily.
Hidden Leadership Dysfunction
- Dysfunctional leadership teams are common, though often hidden by a facade of success.
- CEOs sometimes don't realize dysfunction exists, while others in the team see it clearly.
Spot Early Dysfunction Signs
- CEOs should watch for emotional extremes and communication patterns to spot dysfunction early.
- Signs like shouting or lack of challenge signal issues that can damage performance if ignored.