The Crux: How Leaders Become Strategists

Description

The most important part of a leader's job is to set in motion the actions today that will build a better future tomorrow - in other words, strategy. But how do leaders become strategists? In this ground-breaking book, Richard Rumelt, the world's leading authority on strategy, shows how finding the crux of a challenge is the essence of the strategist's skill. The crux is the key issue where action will best pay off, and Rumelt reveals how to pinpoint it so you can focus energy on what really matters. Drawing on decades of professional and academic experience, and through vivid storytelling - from Elon Musk's decision-making to Netflix's industry dominance - Rumelt illuminates how leaders can overcome obstacles, navigate uncertainty and determine the best path forward. Strategy is not about setting financial targets, statements of desired outcomes, or performance goals, it is about finding the crux and taking decisive, coherent action.

Richard Rumelt is Professor Emeritus at UCLA Anderson. He has also taught at INSEAD in France and at the Harvard Business School, and has consulted with organisations ranging from the Samuel Goldwyn Company to the Defense Intelligence Agency. He is the author of the bestselling 2011 book, Good Strategy/Bad Strategy.

'For any leader looking to deepen their grasp of strategic thinking-and put it into practice-this book full of new inspiration and practical ideas will accelerate your progress.' - Chris Bradley, McKinsey senior partner and co-author 'Essential reading If you want to cut through the fog of what it takes to build and drive a successful business. ... Your guide to become a successful leader and strategist with impact.' - Essa Al-Saleh, CEO of Volta Trucks 'Richard Rumelt is the thinker with the biggest impact on my career and the companies I have been with, making my work more enjoyable and catalysing the creation of wealth which is nothing short of astonishing. The Crux is a triumph' - Simon Gailbraith, CEO and co-founder of Redgate 'Praise for Good Strategy/Bad Strategy: 'A business classic' - Management Today 'A milestone in both the theory and practice of strategy.' - John Stopford, Emeritus Professor, London Business School