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Divided We Lead: CEO Activism Has Entered the Mainstream

By: Aaron K. Chatterji and Michael W. Toffel
  • Format:Electronic
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Abstract

Leaders in all sectors, from business to sports to education, are increasingly wading into controversial political and social issues. Based on interviews with leaders who have made activism part of their core activities, we found that they feel compelled to address hot-button issues and are guided by their own values as well as the history and culture of their organization. They also complement their public activities with a “ground game” executed out of the limelight.

Keywords

Leadership; Values and Beliefs; Social Issues; Communication Strategy

Citation

Chatterji, Aaron K., and Michael W. Toffel. "Divided We Lead: CEO Activism Has Entered the Mainstream." Special Issue on HBR Big Idea: Leadership in a Hot-Button World. Harvard Business Review (website) (March–April 2018).
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About The Author

Michael W. Toffel

Technology and Operations Management
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Related Work

    • Harvard Business Review (website)

    Sidestepping Some of the Partisan Debate: An Interview with Max Stier

    By: Aaron K. Chatterji and Michael W. Toffel
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  • Sidestepping Some of the Partisan Debate: An Interview with Max Stier By: Aaron K. Chatterji and Michael W. Toffel
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