Inside the Strategy Room

Join McKinsey's M&A titans: Jake Henry, a senior partner and global co-leader of the M&A Practice, Patrick McCurdy, a partner focusing on M&A strategy, and Luke Carter, an associate partner and M&A capability expert. They discuss the recent resurgence in M&A activity, driven by disciplined dealmakers. Key highlights include the dominance of programmatic acquirers, the impact of generative AI on deal processes, and the ongoing challenges in Europe versus the booming North American market. The trio shares insights on strategic M&A execution and the importance of cultural fit for success.

Anna Manz, Nestlé's Chief Financial Officer, shares her insights on leveraging AI to enhance long-term strategies and resource allocation. She discusses how geopolitical shifts affect supply chains and emphasizes the need for agility and local manufacturing. Manz highlights the importance of data literacy and evolving finance skills in the AI era. She also explores growth opportunities, particularly in pet care, and explains her role in balancing shareholder and stakeholder value, showcasing the transformative potential of modern finance.

Ed Bastian, CEO of Delta Air Lines, shares insights from his impressive journey leading the largest airline in the world. He discusses the importance of innovation as Delta celebrates its 100th year. Bastian highlights how geopolitical challenges demand vision and adaptability. He delves into using AI to enhance customer experience and emphasizes the significance of employee engagement through profit-sharing. With a focus on humility and open communication, he believes in leading with vulnerability while fostering a culture of ambition and loyalty.

Chris Bradley, Director at the McKinsey Global Institute, and Andy West, Global co-leader of McKinsey's Strategy and Corporate Finance Practice, dive into the new strategic realities reshaping global competition. They discuss the transition from a unipolar to a multipolar world and its impact on industries. With technology advancing rapidly, they highlight the need for companies to adopt a tech-enabled approach and enhance productivity amidst demographic challenges. They also stress the critical role of energy in future strategies and the importance of making bold capital allocation decisions.

In this insightful discussion, Kurt Strovink, a senior partner at McKinsey and coauthor of 'A CEO for All Seasons,' and Carolyn Dewar, also a senior partner and coauthor of 'CEO Excellence,' share their expertise on navigating CEO leadership cycles. They delve into strategies for new CEOs to start strong, emphasizing the importance of vision setting and listening tours. They explore the critical third season challenges, like evolving strategies and learning continuously. The duo highlights the need for CEOs to future-proof their organizations, ensuring sustainable growth.

Carolyn Dewar, Vik Malhotra, and Kurt Strovink, all senior partners at McKinsey and co-authors of the upcoming book 'A CEO for All Seasons,' delve into the complexities of CEO leadership. They discuss why many CEOs feel unprepared for their roles, the importance of self-reflection, and the unique challenges faced at different stages of leadership. The trio also reveal the six core responsibilities of CEOs and the common blind spots that can hinder their effectiveness, offering valuable insights for aspiring and current leaders alike.

Matt Watters, a leader in geopolitics and strategy at McKinsey, and Ezra Greenberg, a partner advising on macroeconomic trends, delve into navigating today’s uncertainties. They discuss how geopolitical shifts, trade volatility, and export controls impact strategic decisions. The duo emphasizes that waiting for stability isn’t viable; instead, companies must make bold moves. Practical strategies like scenario planning and competitive war-gaming are highlighted, offering executives tools to thrive amidst the chaos.

This week’s guest is Dominik Asam, CFO and Executive Board Member at SAP, where he champions decarbonization. He shares insights on blending financial data with sustainability objectives through a 'Green Ledger.' Dominik discusses the transformative role of CFOs in navigating carbon management and how accurate carbon measurements can be integrated into financial metrics. He also highlights the need for a future-proof data strategy, emphasizing the importance of AI in enhancing both financial and ESG analysis for better decision-making.

Charlie Lewis, a partner at McKinsey and leader of their North American and European cyber practices, shares invaluable insights on the ever-evolving cybersecurity landscape. He discusses how hackers now operate like organized businesses, pushing CFOs to understand their companies' vulnerabilities. He explains the dual role of emerging technologies in both enhancing security and introducing new risks. Collaboration is key; Lewis emphasizes the necessity for CFOs and CISOs to unite for effective strategies in combating global cyber threats.

Cole Wirpel, an Associate Partner in Atlanta, Raul Santos, a Partner in Madrid, and Teresa George, a Partner in Chicago, explore how procurement can transform businesses into strategic powerhouses. They share insights on aligning procurement with business goals for improved performance and innovation. The trio discusses the urgent need for speed in procurement transformations, emphasizes collaborative vendor management, and highlights the importance of mindset changes for sustainable budget management. Get ready to rethink procurement as a catalyst for change!