Dr. Kurt Motamedi Authors Opinion Piece in Chief Executive on How Executives Can Navigate Executive Transitions

Dr. Kurt Motamedi, professor of strategy and leadership at Pepperdine Graziadio, authors an opinion piece in Chief Executive, providing advice for seasoned executives on succession and a smooth transition.

A survey conducted by Korn Ferry surveyed more than 1,000 executives on personal and organizational purpose. The vast majority, approximately 73 percent, believe their work has purpose and meaning. In Dr. Motamedi’s private work, he finds chief executives suffer significantly from anxiety and depression when they transition from the pinnacle of their career success to a slow exodus new role or early retirement. In order for chief executives to find joy in their new endeavors, Dr. Motamedi provides recommendations on finding meaning and purpose throughout each phase of an executive career and how to effectively pass the executive reins.

According to Dr. Motamedi, the average chief executive career unfolds in phases: the emerging leader (lower management), the developing leader (upper management), the strategic leader (CEO), and the “traditional” leader (transferring the reins to a successor). The last phase is the most critical for the longevity of the company and executives must support and build confidence in incoming leaders to ensure a smooth transition. Seasoned CEOs can take concrete first steps such as, ensuring financial stability, updating a personal mission statement and following a personal development plan. Read more.