Rich Lesser

Rich Lesser, BCG Global Chair, shares his insights on how CEOs can thrive amid economic turbulence. He discusses the pressing issues highlighted in over 4,500 earnings calls, focusing on the need for CEOs to build resilience. Effective strategies include establishing a 'tariff command center' and leveraging AI for customer relations. Lesser emphasizes the importance of adapting supply chains and pricing strategies in response to trade tariffs, consumer behavior shifts, and the ongoing impacts of inflation and the pandemic.

Rich Lesser, BCG's Global Chair, shares profound insights from the 2025 World Economic Forum in Davos. He discusses the pivotal role of AI in business, emphasizing starting with manageable projects for success. The conversation delves into Europe's energy transition amid geopolitical tensions, underscoring the importance of actionable solutions. Lesser also highlights the need for standards in AI governance to prevent misuse, while reflecting on how leaders are navigating complex challenges and fostering optimism for future innovations.

Rich Lesser, BCG Global Chair, joins to explore the shifting landscape CEOs face amidst economic uncertainty and tariff pressures. They discuss insights from over 4,500 earnings calls, revealing concerns over downturns and consumer behavior shifts. Strategies for resilience emerge, focusing on AI integration and supply chain optimization. Lesser emphasizes the need for balanced business approaches that prioritize risk mitigation while navigating rapid technological changes in a competitive global market.

Rich Lesser, BCG Global Chair, brings valuable insights on how tariffs and geopolitical tensions are reshaping corporate strategies. He discusses the stark divide between financial analysts and CEOs regarding tariff discussions during earnings calls. Lesser shares thoughts on localization, technological advancements, and cost efficiency, particularly in the automotive industry. He also examines the slowdown in mergers and acquisitions due to uncertainty, advocating for adaptability in today’s evolving economic landscape.

Rich Lesser, the Global Chair of BCG, joins Edward Adams to delve into the discrepancies between CEOs and financial analysts regarding US tariffs. They explore how these tariffs may reshape corporate operations and the need for adaptability in an evolving geopolitical landscape. The discussion highlights the potential of circular economy practices in boosting GDP growth and the regulatory hurdles in Europe. Lesser also addresses the unpredictability impacting EBITDA forecasting, urging CEOs to innovate and focus on long-term strategies amid uncertainty.