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  • September 2019
  • Case
  • HBS Case Collection

Sonia Millar: Negotiating for the C-Suite

By: Joshua D. Margolis and Anne Donnellon
  • Format:Print
  • | Language:English
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Abstract

This case addresses the nuances of gender dynamics and career progression at the top of the organization, where even women who have strong leadership expertise, experience, and alliances with powerful male colleagues still get stuck. Told from the point of view of Sonia Millar, the case explicitly presents two significant challenges: How can Millar sustain her career momentum into the CEO role despite taking on the critical but difficult role of CIO? How can Millar address the potentially antagonistic actions of another business leader who may be another strong contender for the CEO promotion? The case provides the opportunity to discuss influence, action planning, talent management, inclusion, and implicit bias. It is designed to provoke debate in the classroom regarding the phenomenon of gender bias (among other forms of bias) in the workplace. It is recommended for upper-level undergraduates, MBA candidates, and executive education participants in courses focused on organizational behavior, power and politics, leadership, diversity, and career management.

Keywords

Executives; CEO; Promotion; Gender Bias; Personal Development and Career; Gender; Diversity; Power and Influence

Citation

Margolis, Joshua D., and Anne Donnellon. "Sonia Millar: Negotiating for the C-Suite." Harvard Business School Brief Case 920-555, September 2019.
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About The Author

Joshua D. Margolis

Organizational Behavior
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Related Work

    • September 2019
    • Faculty Research

    Sonia Millar: Negotiating for the C-Suite, Teaching Note (Brief Case)

    By: Joshua D. Margolis and Anne Donnellon
Related Work
  • Sonia Millar: Negotiating for the C-Suite, Teaching Note (Brief Case) By: Joshua D. Margolis and Anne Donnellon
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