Why Skills-First Leadership Is Replacing the Ivy League Playbook in the C-Suite
05/23/2025
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The old prestige pyramid—where Ivy League degrees and blue-chip consulting backgrounds paved the way to the CEO seat—is cracking.
September 18, 2023: Instacart is marking a valuation of nearly $8.6 billion to $9.3 billion in its imminent IPO, a fraction of what the grocery-delivery business was previously worth, in the belatedly warning of reduced investor enthusiasm for private growth businesses.
Despite that, the largest grocery delivery company in the U.S. is seeking a valuation of billions of dollars less than what it was worth a few years back.
In 2021, the business was valued at $39 billion, but a more recently challenging climate for online delivery has dragged its worth down.
Instacart wants to offer 22 million total shares when it debuts on the Nasdaq, including from current shareholders, and could raise to $660 million. According to the company’s securities filing, PepsiCo has also agreed to purchase $175 million in a concurrent private placement.
Despite upping its price range the day after a successful Arm Holdings debut, Instacart’s valuation has dropped significantly since 2021, when it raised $265 million at a $39 billion valuation.
According to the securities filing, the firm has shifted a profit in recent months, reporting a net income of $242 million for the first six months of 2023, compared to a net failure of $74 million in the year-ago period.
This month is already shaping up to be busy for initial public offerings. Beyond Arm Holdings and Instacart, marketing automation company Klaviyo, and biotechnology firm Neumora are set to list soon.
The old prestige pyramid—where Ivy League degrees and blue-chip consulting backgrounds paved the way to the CEO seat—is cracking.
Loud leaders once ruled the boardroom. Charisma was currency. Big talk drove big valuations.
But the CEOs who make history in downturns aren’t the ones with the deepest cuts
Companies invest millions in leadership development, yet many of their best executives leave within a few years. Why?
The most successful business leaders don’t just identify gaps in the market; they anticipate future needs before anyone else.
With technological advancements, shifting consumer expectations, and global interconnectedness, the role of business leaders
Maushum Basu is a visionary leader who inspires his team with a clear, compelling purpose. Unafraid to take calculated risks, he understands that growth often stems from change and innovation. His deep commitment to both Airia Brands, Inc.
When speaking with Martin Paquette, one thing is immediately apparent: he’s honest. His transparency is refreshing. While many shy away from such vulnerability, Paquette sees it as a force to reckon with. The incredible emotional intelligence speaks to years of looking within—it’s also what allows him to acknowledge his mistakes gracefully and use them as opportunities to innovate.
Marina Charriere, CEO of Star Drug Testing Services, Star Drug Testing Services (Windsor Park), and First Defence Face Masks go hand in hand. Star is a drug and alcohol testing facility, and First D F M is a face mask company.
Lejjy Gafour, CEO, CULT Food Science Corp. Lejjy is a self-taught entrepreneur and experienced company operator who made his start creating opportunities at the young age of 14, and he has been working, leading, and building businesses ever since.
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