Ken Chenault

Ken Chenault, former CEO of American Express and chairman of General Catalyst, shares his insights on leadership during challenging times. He emphasizes the importance of inspiring hope and prioritizing responsible innovation that uplifts society. The discussion touches on effective leadership traits post-pandemic, the balance between profit and purpose, and initiatives aimed at creating sustainable job opportunities for marginalized communities. Chenault advocates for skills-based hiring, aiming to create one million jobs over the next decade, fostering equality and fairness.

In times of uncertainty, leaders have a responsibility to inspire hope. Sharing hard-won wisdom, business leader Ken Chenault talks about what it takes to enact positive, enduring change -- and why it's more important than ever to invest in responsible innovation that uplifts people and centers equality and fairness. A quick favor! We love making TED Business, and we want to make it better. So if you have a few minutes, share your thoughts at surveynerds.com/ted Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ken Chenault, former CEO of American Express and chair of General Catalyst, passionately discusses the vital role of businesses in advocating for social responsibility. He emphasizes the need for corporate leaders to engage in societal matters, particularly after George Floyd’s death. Chenault co-founded OneTen to create 1 million jobs for Black Americans, illustrating the intersection of corporate responsibility and social justice. His insights on responsible innovation highlight that prioritizing character and values can lead to long-term success for businesses.

Ken Frazier, former CEO of Merck, advocates for health equity and social responsibility, while Ken Chenault, ex-CEO of American Express, champions diversity in business. They discuss how campus protests influence corporate leadership, urging CEOs to navigate societal tensions carefully. The duo emphasizes the vital role of DEI initiatives and the necessity of inclusive practices to reflect diverse perspectives. They also highlight the importance of civil discourse on contentious issues, particularly in today's polarized environment, advocating for courageous leadership amidst uncertainty.

Ken Chenault, former CEO of American Express, discusses leadership, culture, and creating opportunities. Topics include equal opportunities, school integration, skill-based jobs, treating members, and achieving best in class economics.