Free Essay

Elements of Leadership

In: Business and Management

Submitted By puven
Words 392
Pages 2
Kevin Barney Rollins (born November 15, 1952) is an American businessman and philanthropist. The former President and CEO of Dell Inc., in 2006 Rollins was named by London's CBR as the 9th Most Influential person in the Enterprise IT sector.[1]

Rollins was born and raised in Utah and met his wife Debra while attending Brigham Young University (BYU).[2] While at BYU, Rollins earned a bachelors in Humanities and Civil Engineering in 1983 and an MBA a year later.[3] Before joining Dell in April 1996, Rollins was vice president and partner of Bain & Company where he specialized in strategies and management for high technology and consumer product clients. He helped develop strategies that propelled Dell into a commanding position in the direct selling of computer systems in the United States.[2]

Rollins and his wife have four children and seven grandchildren.[2]

Rollins became the chairman of the American Enterprise Institute's Board of Trustees on January 1, 2009.
Rollins worked at Dell for over a decade in various positions, including Senior VP of Corporate Strategy (1996), president of Dell Americas (1996–2001) overseeing operations in the United States, Canada, Mexico, and Latin America, COO (2001–2004), president (2001–2007), and CEO (2004–2007).[3] During the last four quarters of his leadership, the company employed approximately 50,000 workers worldwide and reported revenues of $45.4 billion.[2]

While at Dell, Rollins oversaw company plans to spend more on staff training and customer services, and sales increased $14.2 billion—up 6% year on year with a net income of $762 million. He also announced that Dell would add support for AMD chips. In 2006, Forbes magazine listed Rollins as the 18th highest compensated CEO in the world at $39.31 million for achieving a 9% decline in stock performance during his tenure with a stock performance that was 81 percent that of the S&P 500.[4] He also oversaw amongst one of the largest layoffs that Dell had until then (2006-2007) of 8000 people worldwide. [5] There was resentment at his below-par decisions and execution, which could have contributed to his removal from Dell. Rollins was fired from Dell in January, 2007.[6]

Upon leaving Dell in 2007, Rollins was paid $48.5 million in cash related to expired stock options.[7]

Philanthropic efforts[edit]

Similar Documents

Premium Essay

Elements of Leadership

...Leaders and Leadership An Analysis of Kevin Rollins and his Leadership Style MBA 517 –T 03/14/2010 The Organizational Gems Christina Lakich Nick Madara Brenda Mercado Karla Reeves Outcomes Elements of Leadership From the case, we analyzed Kevin Rollins Leadership style and gathered that he has five distinct elements. First, he is a formal leader, as CEO he is given the authority to allocate the company’s resources the way he feels will make the company more productive and profitable. He was given this power when he succeeded Michael Dell as CEO, before then he was second in command and did not have as much influence over the company’s resources. Another element to his leadership is his need for continuous improvement. After the huge decline in revenue Dell decided to sell its products in Wal-Mart stores in order to reach lower income consumers as well as continuing to sell directly from their website, however, Rollins saw that in the long run this could actually cause the company to lose money because Dell only provided their products in certain retail stores. This demonstrates how he jumped right in to tackle the company’s biggest problem: not meeting their projected revenue, and how he can come up with ways to improve their current situation. The third element to Rollins’ leadership style is initiating structure; he is always analyzing...

Words: 1190 - Pages: 5

Premium Essay

The Five Key Elements of Leadership

...The five key elements of leadership Communication: A leader should communication frequently to his team. That influences the people and makes them to focus on their mission. Leader should develop there communication network to understand what is happening, next tasks and why, by updating the leader will get support in critical period. A good leader should be with honest and positive approach, though he does not have a proper back ground or experience in that particular action. Leaders have an effective skill to accomplish the task with expected outcomes. Vision: Great leader could estimate the results that will appear in the future at their profession and executes the plan accordingly in process. They have good relationship and communication around his, updated every day to day life cycle to enhance the business. Courage: To have courage requires confidence. The best leaders are very confident in themselves and their ideas, which allow them to be key. But, they must be able to exude that confidence without taking arrogance or pressure. Great leaders have the ability to make tough decisions and are willing to take risks, even when conventional wisdom would dictate otherwise. They must be willing to stand alone if they believe in their convictions. This is directly related to their visionary skills, strategic thinking and their self-confidence. Involve the Entire Company Front to Back : Develop and practice the attitude that everyone owns the company. Value all contributions...

Words: 575 - Pages: 3

Premium Essay

Leadership

...Entrepreneurial Leadership Wade D. Anderson Professor Dr. Gary Shelton BUS 508 July 16, 2011 Discuss the common elements described in the theories/ philosophies of Case, Kouzes, and Drucker including how their principles/ strategies relate to the new definition of entrepreneur leadership presented in Understanding Entrepreneurial Leadership. The common elements described in the theories/philosophies of Case, Kouzes, and Drucker are vision, adaptability, and creativity. The new definition of Entrepreneurial Leadership is one of an enterprising, transformational leader who operates in a dynamic market that offers lucrative opportunities (Tarabishy, Fernald, Solomon, 2010). Case, Kouzes, and Drucker theories share some commonality with the new definition of entrepreneurial leadership. The common elements shared Case, Kouzes, and Drucker and the new definition of entrepreneurial leadership is that entrepreneurial leaders must have a clear vision of a need to meet, create opportunities, and adapt to the ever changing environment. The vision for a entrepreneur is an a ideal of how to make their business a success. Usually something that will make the lives or people easier or meet a need of people that has not been met. Once the entrepreneur has this ideal they must then pursue it passionately to no end. For example “the two young engineers who started the Apple computer-in the proverbial garage and without financial backers or previous business experience-aimed from the...

Words: 2174 - Pages: 9

Premium Essay

Entrepreneurial Leadership

...Discuss the common elements described in the theories/ philosophies of Case, Kouzes, and Drucker including how their principles/strategies relate to the new definition of entrepreneurial leadership presented in Understanding Entrepreneurial Leadership in today¶s Dynamic Markets. Entrepreneurial Leadership has many different meanings across disciplines. The new definition of Entrepreneurial Leadership is one of an enterprising, transformational leader who operates in adynamic market that offers lucrative opportunities (Tarabishy, Fernald, Solomon, 2010). The theoriesof Case, Kouzes, and Drucker share many similarities to the new definition of entrepreneurialleadership. The main elements shared by these individuals and the new definition of entrepreneurialleadership is entrepreneurial leaders have a clear vision, create opportunities, and adapt to change.One common element Case, Kouzes, and Drucker share with the definition of Entrepreneurialleadership is that entrepreneurial leaders have a vision for their business aspirations. Each theory of the characteristics of entrepreneurial leadership states that these leaders have a clear picture of theaspirations for their business venture, potential success, and the means in which to achieve thegoals. Entrepreneurial leaders not only vision, but can effectively articulate their vision to employees,stakeholders, and others in order to inspire and facilitate a shared vision. The vision oftentimes is thefoundation that entrepreneurship based...

Words: 1276 - Pages: 6

Premium Essay

Entrepreneurial Leadership

...Assignment #1- Entrepreneurial Leadership T’Juan Rucker Dr. Birmingham The Business Enterprise- BUS 508 October 28, 2010 Discuss the common elements described in the theories/ philosophies of Case, Kouzes, and Drucker including how their principles/strategies relate to the new definition of entrepreneurial leadership presented in Understanding Entrepreneurial Leadership in today’s Dynamic Markets. Entrepreneurial Leadership has many different meanings across disciplines. The new definition of Entrepreneurial Leadership is one of an enterprising, transformational leader who operates in a dynamic market that offers lucrative opportunities (Tarabishy, Fernald, Solomon, 2010). The theories of Case, Kouzes, and Drucker share many similarities to the new definition of entrepreneurial leadership. The main elements shared by these individuals and the new definition of entrepreneurial leadership is entrepreneurial leaders have a clear vision, create opportunities, and adapt to change. One common element Case, Kouzes, and Drucker share with the definition of Entrepreneurial leadership is that entrepreneurial leaders have a vision for their business aspirations. Each theory of the characteristics of entrepreneurial leadership states that these leaders have a clear picture of the aspirations for their business venture, potential success, and the means in which to achieve the goals. Entrepreneurial leaders not only vision, but can effectively articulate their vision to...

Words: 1402 - Pages: 6

Premium Essay

Entrepreneurial Leadership

...Entrepreneurial Leadership Abstract Entrepreneurial leadership helps develop and sustain elements of the organizational culture. Bergstrom (2004) interpreted that entrepreneurial leadership has three dimensions: 1) take more risk; 2) favor change to obtain the advantage; and 3) compete aggressively. We will discuss the common elements of different theories and philosophies as it relates to the new definition of entrepreneurial leadership. I will discuss my leadership style that I aspire to be, and compare it to dimensions of other leadership styles. Entrepreneurs have a wealth of knowledge at their finger tips using tools and resources available through the Small Business Administration (SBA) and the website SCORE. We will explore and compile useful information that can be obtained from the SBA that entrepreneurs and new business owners can use to gain an advantage on start up. I will describe my personal principles of leadership and explain why I believe in them. Entrepreneurial Leadership Discuss the common elements described in the theories/philosophies of Case, Kouzes, and Drucker including how their principles/strategies relate to the new definition of entrepreneurial leadership. Entrepreneurial leadership is a complex style of leading. Individuals who practice this style are generally; driven, risk taker, aggressive and can recognize when change will give the advantage. Peter Drucker (1985) discusses several strategies of entrepreneurs, but “Fustest...

Words: 1096 - Pages: 5

Premium Essay

Leadership

...Modern Leadership University of Maryland University College AMBA 600 9045 10/28/14 Susan Malone Abstract The following paper examines two different leadership styles. Daniel Goleman introduces emotional intelligence and he explains the fundamental elements that define emotional intelligence and make a good leader. Mitch McCrimmon examines thought leadership in the workplace and compares it to shared or positional leadership. Both styles of leadership are similar and yet much different. In order for an organization to be effective, it must utilize both styles of leadership. Today’s economic climate calls for companies to constantly think outside the box and be innovative and in order to do this, organizations need good leadership. What defines good leadership? Both Goleman and McCrimmon give examples of what comprises a true leader and what qualities should a good leader should posses. Leading from the Mind What is leadership? Leadership is defined as the ability to guide or direct a group of individuals. In order to guide or direct a group, one must be able to take charge and influence in an effective way. According to Daniel Goleman, leadership comes from a learned emotional intelligence. Goleman claims that in order to be a good leader, one must possess the quality of empathy. One must be able to emotionally understand others and use this understanding to exert influence. (Goleman, 1998) According to Mitch McCrimmon, anyone can be a leader. McCrimmon claims that...

Words: 1942 - Pages: 8

Free Essay

Management and Leadership

...Organization has many moving parts, these parts must work together productively to makes it successful. Management and leadership are two of the most important roles in having a healthy productive organization; both roles are of great important but differ in many ways. There are several other elements to an organization such as operations, marketing, accounting and finance. Depending on the size of the company these elements may be accomplished by an individual or a team. No matter the size of the organization all these elements work together to make a business run. How well these elements are organized directed and implemented will determine the success of the organization. Let’s take a look at some of the main elements needed to insure an efficient productive organization. Leadership is responsible for driving change within an organization as stated in the YouTube clip Management vs. Leadership (Snezhil, 2008). Leading the organization in the direction of accomplishing the mission statement and goals of the organization is priority to leadership. As stated by James Manktelow strong leadership develops and promotes team unity which is important to accomplish success (Manktelow). The success of the organization is represented by the structure and performance driven by the leadership team. It is leadership’s responsibility in an organization to set and develop performance targets and objectives for managers to implement to the front line. It is also their responsibility to evaluate...

Words: 1117 - Pages: 5

Free Essay

Leadership

...What appears to be the key elements of team effectiveness? In particular consider the importance of leadership in teams and reflect critically on your own leadership Effective team working is an essential ingredient for organisational success. Successful teams can help transform an organisation, increase outputs and deliver on organisational objectives. Gorman (1998) argues that the composition of teams, how they work together, how they are motivated and the quality of leadership within teams are just some of the elements that contribute to making a successful organisation. However it has been said that effective teams are not a natural phenomenon (Mcshane &Tavaglione, 2007). In conformance with the last statement a team is said to be a group of two or more people who influence and interact with one another, perceive themselves as a social entity within an organisation and who work towards, and are mutually accountable for, achieving shared goals associated with organisational objective (Mcshane &Tavaglione, 2007). This essay will discuss the key elements of team effectiveness; will then consider the importance of leadership in a team linking theory with practice, by critically analysing...

Words: 1269 - Pages: 6

Premium Essay

Entrepreneurial Leadership

...Entrepreneurial Leadership is a very important concept in today’s society. The determination of a person or business with the struggling of the economic and the many challenging that the economic having to face in order to get economic back on track, enabling the economic to be able to grow with the new technologies for the 21st century. An entrepreneurial leader a person has to “innovative, creative, and will to be open for change” (O’Connor & Fiol, 2002; Stevenson & Gumpert, 1983). The word entrepreneurial leadership is a very important element for an individual to have the knowledge of the many different changes that occurs with the economic and the continuously evolved of the current changes with the growth of the new technology. The most common elements that the three authors focus on where: entrepreneurial leadership and the strategies in how they are related within today’s society. The three different authors also had some similar focus on the entrepreneurial leadership’s vision and their creative. The first important element that Steve Case’s believes is: “The Three P”. “People, Passion, and Perseverance” (Case, 2010). Case’s believes that when a person’s innovation, are risk takers have an entrepreneurship will improve our economic. He also believes that entrepreneurship is the underline of our future for the economic. Steve Case’s believes that entrepreneurship is a growth of success to businesses and the way people live their lives in the future economic (Case...

Words: 1261 - Pages: 6

Premium Essay

Determining Your Perfect Position

...the purpose of what management is supposed to do. Leadership the one of the premier qualities of a manager and it is the vehicle through which they drive those who follow towards the achievement of organizational goals. Moreover, management in the upper levels of organizations, along with board members, although considered leaders and have considerable influence over employees, may not be leaders at all. A leader, according to The American Heritage Dictionary of the English Language, is defined as one who is in charge of or in command of others. Thus, leaders have followers. The organization I work for is going through an expansion process and a restructuring. They are offering me a leadership role. I consider this to be an opportunity because they propose to allow me to determine the capacity of the role that I feel will fit my style of leadership. Therefore, I must take care to analyze my personal strengths and weaknesses, consider my personal leadership style based on the leadership theories that I have knowledge of, and be able to describe my perfect position. These elements will assist in arriving to an effective decision. The self-assessment tests concerning leadership aided me in understanding the elements of my style and behavior that needed improvement. It also provided information to me regarding my strengths and weaknesses concerning leadership style. From the results of the assessment, I am a leadership theorist type, which means that I have an affinity...

Words: 1135 - Pages: 5

Premium Essay

Paper

... Entrepreneur Leadership Leadership is the most important component in for a successful company. There are different leaders that could differ from their techniques First of all, a leader should be innovative and to have a strategy to find the solution. Leaders should use different strategies to find opponents weak point. They don’t ask a question “how I will do that “ thy ask “what is the best solution to find this problem”. To become good leaders we should ask questions to our self. If a leader would dream to excel in their job they should have some characteristics such as being charismatic, innovations and challenging our self with new tasks. But, above all leaders should have a goal and know what they want to achieve and to try to predict future However, to explain the term leadership has tried many leaders in this group are some really successful leaders that need to be taken as a good example: Steve Case, Peter F. Drucker, James Kouzes. Steve Case , who also had common theories/philosophies about leadership. The three of them had common elements in achieving a successful career in leadership. They all believed that there are some elements that leaders should poses starting from passion for their work, which means that they are devoted and are doing their job with passion and that is when they are successful because they would be innovative and would enjoy doing their job. Than another element is finding the right people for their...

Words: 515 - Pages: 3

Premium Essay

Emotionally Intelligent Leadership Surpasses Thought Leadership

...Emotionally Intelligent Leadership Surpasses Thought Leadership by Carol Kay Hammond Table of Contents Introduction 2 A Summary of David Goleman’s Article: “The Emotional Intelligence of Leaders” 3 A Summary of Mitch McCrimmon’s Article: Thought Leadership: A Radical Departure from Traditional, Positional Leadership 7 Emotionally Intelligent Leadership Should be at the Helm of All Organizations and Thought Leadership Should Play Second Fiddle 10 Conclusion 11 References 13 Introduction Great leadership is instrumental to the success of any organization. Authors David Goleman in his article “The Emotional Intelligence of Leaders” and Mitch McCrimmon in his article “Thought Leadership: A Radical Departure from Traditional, Positional Leadership” both write their opinions about what type of leadership is best. Goleman asserted in his article that emotional intelligence should be cultivated in all leaders because those who are emotionally intelligent make the best leaders. McCrimmon asserted in his article that thought leadership should be cultivated in all organizations because thought leadership is the best type of leadership. Both authors offer compelling arguments. However Goleman’s article, “The Emotional Intelligence of Leaders” makes the most compelling argument. The following sections explore the arguments of Goleman and McCrimmon and end with a discussion of why the cultivation of emotional intelligent leaders should take precedence...

Words: 3092 - Pages: 13

Premium Essay

Leadership

...The role of moral leadership for sustainable consumption and production some theoretical and normative explorations Onno M. Vinkhuyzen1,2 and Sylvia I. Karlsson-Vinkhuyzen1,3 1 International Environment Forum, Geneva, Switzerland 2 European Bahá’í Business Forum, Tamboer 167, 6866EH Heelsum, the Netherlands, onno@ebbf.org, +31647326786 3 Public Administration and Policy Group, Wageningen University, Hollandseweg 1, 6706KN Wagenigen, the Netherlands, and Turku University, 20014 Turun yliopisto, Finland, sylvia.karlsson-vinkhuyzen@wur.nl, +31858770774 Abstract: In this paper we argue that an adequate understanding of sustainable consumption and production (SCP) involves a mature consciousness of the interdependence between ourselves and the rest of our human family and its habitat. The principles, the actions and the vision that form the basis for SCP are not unknown, but there is a considerable gap between knowledge and action and behavioural incentives are not sufficient for system change. In the conversations between the authors of this paper, a practitioner and an academic, on the reasons for this knowledge-action gap there emerged a common recognition of the potentially significant role of values and particularly values-based leadership in the processes and partnerships that work for sustainability transitions in SCP. Our starting point is that values, what we humans consider to be good, are formed by a range of factors (cultural, political, social, religious) and are...

Words: 5467 - Pages: 22

Premium Essay

Management Principles

...Frenchman and a coal-mining engineer, developed fourteen management principles that form the basis for today’s effective organizational management. Fayol’s management principles help managers to make crucial decisions towards the accomplishment of individual and organizational objectives. Apparently, management and leadership go hand in hand in the process of running an organization. On the other hand, Stauffacher describes leadership as an interpersonal role of an individual to influence and provide purpose, direction, motivation, and support of other people in the achievement of the mission. Leadership is the most essential element of the management process. However, it is knowledge, skills and experience that culminate into a leader’s effectiveness. Therefore, the objective of this paper is to discuss Fayol’s management and Stauffacher’s leadership principles. Besides, it shows the relevance of these concepts in contemporary organizations. Fayol’s Management Principles Fayol identified fourteen universal doctrines of management from his long experience in the industry (Anupkumar 5). Fayol derived these principles from five basic elements of management. The first element, which he...

Words: 1515 - Pages: 7