Today we got a new CEO, making it the third leader since I entered HP. I have not experienced these frequent changes of direction, not until the recent two years of my career.
One article in HBR stated that this beloved icon has already lost the “HP way”, something that the founders Bill Hewlett and Dave Packard have long instilled in the company. Whether it’s completely true or not, recent events proved that our leaders have failed to commit to the enduring set of values of HP. What’s worse is they also failed to do something I consider elementary and fundamental – succession planning. How can we not find someone from within the ranks among a pool of gifted technology leaders? Apple was able to replace Steve Jobs with someone with a track record inside the company, why can’t we? We had three chances to do it, but it never happened.
Tonight, I saw our new CEO being interviewed at CNBC. She reassured the public of the company’s commitment to stabilize its business. Yes, we employees are committed and will continue to rally amidst this crisis. I’m just hoping the board will do its part – demonstrate true leadership, commit to develop a focused vision, and execute a credible strategy . In short, may they get their acts together, even before Bill and Dave turn over in their graves.