I think it was in "Built to Last" that I read this, but it talked about different types of CEOs.
Basically, there's the visionary/cult leader type of CEO that builds an organization where he is the center and everyone else is essentially one of the tentacles. These orgs can get into trouble after the CEO leaves.
Then there's the behind-the-scenes CEOs you've probably never heard of--they tend to build organizations where they are not the focal point of every decision. These organizations have a better chance of continued success after the departure of their CEO.
Or so the story goes... it is a pop business book, so take it for what it is... and time will tell whether or not this applies to apple
Sure, I hear you. But I could make the same argument about most any pop business book, biography, case study, history book, or startup blog post. That doesn't mean they have no value, nor does it mean that the simple act of reading them and coming to your own conclusions will transform you into some kind of idiot.
Basically, there's the visionary/cult leader type of CEO that builds an organization where he is the center and everyone else is essentially one of the tentacles. These orgs can get into trouble after the CEO leaves.
Then there's the behind-the-scenes CEOs you've probably never heard of--they tend to build organizations where they are not the focal point of every decision. These organizations have a better chance of continued success after the departure of their CEO.
Or so the story goes... it is a pop business book, so take it for what it is... and time will tell whether or not this applies to apple