This is a book for rational optimists.
It is packed with ideas for managers who have not lost their idealism. It offers a rich source of models, motives and methods for anyone who has aspirations to lead. It makes the assumption that the potent blend of scientific thinking and market institutions that increasingly characterises the open societies of the world today is the dynamic that will propel the global economy to ever-increasing levels of human achievement and personal fulfillment.
Comprising 73 short essays, each one designed to introduce a radically new perspective on an old problem, it sets a style of thinking and an attitude towards change and risk that is timely, exciting and infectious. Written with the clear intention of changing the way in which modern organisations define their ends and design their means, the authors make a compelling case for the reinvention of management and the redesign of the working environment.
The authors do not hold back. They write frankly and succinctly about their experiences of consulting to many of the world’s most successful corporations. They invert many of the tired and cynical assumptions that underpin the organisational routines and rituals that kill enthusiasm at work and that act as a drag anchor on the natural inventiveness and ingenuity of employees.
If ever there were an antidote to managerial humbug, this book is it.
“Provocative, insightful, innovative and contrarian – with truths on every page“ Lynda Gratton
“groundbreaking… a joy to read” Tom Robertson
“witty and polemical… will get you thinking!” Costas Markides
Jules Goddard is a Fellow of the Centre for Management Development and also Research Associate of the Management Lab at London Business School, where he has taught competitive strategy and creative marketing for 30 years. He was previously Gresham Professor of Commerce and Mercers Memorial Professor at City University. He has written widely on strategic and managerial innovation. Jules is a Graduate of the Business Coach programme, BC04.
Tony Eccles is Visiting Professor of Strategic Management at Cass Business School, City University, having previously been Professor of Strategic Management at London Business School, as well as working in operations management with Unilever. He has consulted with many international organisations, been a television presenter and award winning copywriter. Author of Under New Management and Succeeding with Change.
by Jules Goddard & Tony Eccles
Publication date: 3rd May 2012
Retail price: £12.99 Paperback
Profile Books LTD
