In the wake of continuing corporate scandals there have been few, if any, CEOs that have stepped forward as
models of "doing things right" -- except the former chairman and CEO of Medtronic, Bill George. George
has become the unofficial spokesperson for responsible leadership -- in business, the media, and academia.
In Authentic Leadership Bill George makes the case that we do need new leaders, not just new laws, to bring us
out of the current corporate crisis. He persuasively demonstrates that authentic leaders of mission-driven companies
will create far greater shareholder value than financially oriented companies. During George's twelve-year leadership
at Medtronic, the company's market capitalization soared from $1.1 billion to $460 billion, averaging 35% per year.
George candidly recounts many of the toughest challenges he encountered -- from ethical dilemmas and battles with
the FDA to his own development as a leader. He shows how to develop the five essential dimensions of authentic
leaders-- purpose, values, heart, relationships, and self-discipline. Authentic Leadership offers inspiring lessons
to all who want to lead with heart and with compassion for those they serve.
Bill George helps readers answer vital questions such as: What should I do when my personal values conflict with
company business values? How do I make trade-offs between the needs of my customers, my employees, and my company's
shareholders? Do I really want to devote my talents to business? Authentic Leadership provides a tested guide for
character-based leaders and all those who have a stake in the integrity and success of our corporations.