Decoder with Nilay Patel Recode Decode: Former HP CEO Carly Fiorina
Oct 7, 2019
Carly Fiorina, former CEO of HP and 2016 Republican presidential candidate, shares her journey from a secretary to a tech leader. She discusses the challenges women face in a male-dominated industry and critiques the concentration of power in Silicon Valley. Fiorina reflects on her unique friendship with Steve Jobs and the missteps of both Trump and Zuckerberg. The conversation also touches on the necessity of authentic leadership and the importance of problem solvers in politics, while highlighting the evolving dynamics within the Republican Party.
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Early Challenges as HP CEO
- Carly Fiorina faced intense scrutiny as HP CEO, with rumors about her appearance and spending habits.
- This included false claims about a pink marble bathroom and a traveling entourage of stylists.
The Compaq Acquisition and Proxy Battle
- Carly Fiorina discusses the Compaq acquisition, a move she believed was strategically necessary despite market doubt.
- This led to a proxy battle with the founders' sons, which HP ultimately won.
Boardroom Conflicts and Departure from HP
- Carly Fiorina attributes her ouster from HP to board members leaking confidential information.
- This was due to disagreements over management team appointments, leading to a major boardroom battle.
