All of you have probably read quite a bit about the world’s wealthiest man—Bill Gates. But some of you are probably not nearly as familiar with Bill Gates’s main rival and world’s seventh wealthiest man, former Oracle CEO Larry Ellison. Ellison recently retired as Chief Executive officer (CEO) but is still active as the chair of Oracle’s board of directors. Unlike Gates, who is relatively reserved, Ellison is known for his extravagant lifestyle and boastful interviews.
The rivalry between Ellison and Gates is legendary, but not quite as much is known about Ellison’s leadership style. He has been described as a “jerk,” and his managerial style has been described as “take no prisoners.” While he is unquestionably a powerful leader, he has also been criticized for spending a lot of time playing golf while leaving many leadership duties to his subordinates.
For this assignment, read up on leadership traits, leadership behaviors, and leadership styles in the required background materials. Then read up on Larry Ellison and find as much as you can about his personality and leadership style. Finally, try to apply what you’ve read in the required background materials about leadership traits, behaviors, and styles to what you found out about Larry Ellison.
Here are some articles to get you started on your research about Ellison:
Hymowitz, C. (2005). Working fewer hours is hard for most CEOs, but some find a way. Wall Street Journal, B1. Available in the Trident Online Library.
Leibovich, M. (2000). The outsider, his business and his billions series: The new imperialists: Larry Ellison, oracle until himself. The Washington Post, A1. Available in the Trident Online Library.
Mendleson, R. (2010). Why it pays to be a jerk. Canadian Business, 83(18), 28-30, 32, 34. Available in the Trident Online Library.
Watch the following video:
Fox Business. (2018, October 25). Larry Ellison: I had all the disadvantages necessary for success [Video]. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vrZoRNSQSPw
How would you describe Ellison’s leadership style?
How would you describe Ellison’s personality and leadership traits?
Would you describe Ellison’s behavior as being task-oriented, or people/relationship-oriented?
Would you describe Ellison’s leadership style as diverse and inclusive? If so or if not, please explain your response.
