Volvo CEO Jacoby's tips for next-generation auto leaders
 | Douglas A. Bolduc is managing editor at Automotive News Europe. |
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Volvo CEO Stefan Jacoby thinks the future leaders of the automotive industry should be adventurous, courageous but also focused on more than just their work.
He shared those suggestions during his keynote speech Wednesday night at Automotive News Europe Rising Stars awards dinner in Monte Carlo Monaco. The 2012 Rising Stars program recognized 15 young, talented and ambitious automotive executive who have a pan-European profile, have driven change, fostered innovation and made gutsy decisions.
During his candid and insightful speech, Jacoby said that he was very aggressive as a young executive because he was determined to stand out and prove himself. It wasn't until he became a manager that he realized that to be a true leader he needed to be more focused on his team's success than his own glory. Based on what he has learned during his time in top-level jobs at Volkswagen, Mitsubishi and Volvo, Jacoby had the following pieces of advice for this year's Rising Stars:
• Be flexible because the side roads lead to the most interesting places
• Take risks because fear of failure can be a road block to success
• Live for today and don't worry about tomorrow because if you do a good job the future will take care of itself
• Find a work-life balance so that your job is stimulating and challenging but it is not the only focus.
Jacoby said that he continues to struggle with No. 4 on his list, but he is not going to stop trying.
You can reach Douglas A. Bolduc at dbolduc@crain.com.
