The So What from BCG

The Chief of Staff: A CEO’s Secret Weapon

6 snips
Oct 23, 2024
Judith Wallenstein, a leader in BCG’s CEO Advisory, shares insights on the crucial role of chiefs of staff in enhancing CEO success. She reveals that the best chiefs of staff embody integrity and selflessness, often remaining in the background. Wallenstein discusses the evolving responsibilities of this role in the face of public scrutiny and how a chief of staff can maximize a CEO's productivity. Furthermore, she emphasizes the importance of nurturing personal wellness and adapting to technological advancements in leadership.
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INSIGHT

Personality over Experience

  • The most crucial trait for a chief of staff is personality, not experience.
  • The best chiefs of staff are selfless and dedicated to their CEO's success.
INSIGHT

Chief of Staff vs. EA

  • Executive assistants manage the CEO's schedule and integrate their professional and private lives.
  • Chiefs of staff can range from goalkeepers to strategic proxies, distinct from EAs.
ANECDOTE

Example: Jason Griff

  • Jason Griff, Satya Nadella's chief of staff at Microsoft, exemplifies selfless dedication.
  • He helped optimize Nadella's time and provided valuable guidance to others.
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