Categories: CEO1000 Tracker

Successful Chief Executive Transitions Part 2: The Role of the Predecessor

A predecessor’s influence on the transition of a new CEO is critical. It can be blatant or subtle, positive or negative, cooperative or confrontational. He/she can be an invaluable dispenser of wisdom or an obstinate builder of roadblocks. To be successful, the new chief executive must quickly learn to manage this powerful presence while letting others know who is leading the organization.

But for the new CEO to be successful, should the previous CEO stay and help with the transition…or go?

The outgoing leader who stays on the board can help the incoming CEO understand major adjustments he/she will face and plan for them, as well as provide insights on how the board operates and its agenda.

But there can also be problems if the former CEO doesn’t learn to let go.

Click here to read the latest blog post by Paul C. Winum, Senior Partner, Practice Leader—Board & CEO Services at RHR International, with more insightful information on the positive aspects of keeping the former CEO through the transition, as well as the dangers of doing so, and the warning signs to watch out for.

This article is sponsored by RHR International. 


RHR International

Share
Published by
RHR International

Recent Posts

Six Questions For Self-Understanding

Having clarity about who we are allows us to envision the person—and leader—we want to…

2 hours ago

CEOs Cut 2026 Outlook In September Poll As Economic Uncertainty Persists 

CEOs are toning down their optimism for the coming months, amid continued worries about tariffs,…

1 day ago

Disaster Is Inevitable. Is Your Business Ready to Survive?

Floods, fires and storms aren't rare—they're relentless. Here's how your business can prepare for what…

4 days ago

Imagining Tomorrow: Ten Trends Redefining The Future Of Strategy

It's no longer about being big; it's about being fast. To thrive in this dynamic…

4 days ago

How Jordan’s Skinny Mixes CEO Fueled Triple-Digit Growth

From sparking viral TikTok trends to landing nationwide retail deals, Tim Snyder is expanding Jordan’s…

4 days ago

It’s Time To Fire Your Legal Team (From Contract Management)

You're paying lawyers $300 to $500 an hour to review contracts that never change, writes…

4 days ago