Appointing a new CEO: not a simple task

Discusses how CEOs are appointed and shows the actual process is fraught with uncertainty and problems. Looks at the first five stages of their suggested management succession cycle, using some 30 interviews in the UK with CEOs and chairmen plus top managers, these five stages are: planning; the search for candidates; making the choice; appointment; and interregnum. Deplores the secrecy‐shrouded proceedings in appointing CEOs who will prove to be successful for the appointees — if this process is mismanaged it can create bitterness or envy.