How Leaders Lead with David Novak

#253: Roger Crandall, Chairman, President and CEO of MassMutual – Make the numbers mean something

7 snips
Aug 21, 2025
Roger Crandall, the Chairman, President, and CEO of MassMutual, emphasizes the importance of transforming data into compelling stories to engage teams. He shares insights on dismantling bureaucracy and fostering collaboration in workplace culture. Crandall discusses life insurance's value, integrates noble causes into leadership, and reflects on his journey from early investment lessons to the finance industry. He also addresses the role of AI in insurance, highlighting adaptation and momentum as key leadership strategies in a rapidly changing landscape.
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ADVICE

Flatten Hierarchy With Space And Titles

  • Flatten hierarchy by removing excessive title layers and big exclusive offices.
  • Make shared spaces and open booking options to encourage collaboration and engagement.
ADVICE

Fight Bureaucracy By Encouraging Voice

  • Encourage people, especially digital natives, to speak up about new technology like AI.
  • Keep pushing engagement or bureaucracy will quietly return.
INSIGHT

Mutual Ownership Drives Long-Term Thinking

  • Mutual ownership creates a single long-term constituency to serve.
  • That perspective forces multigenerational thinking and stewardship across decisions.
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