Why Skills-First Leadership Is Replacing the Ivy League Playbook in the C-Suite
05/23/2025
No Comments
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: Artificial intelligence is competent of helping solve a few of the world’s biggest issues and could reach the intelligence of humankind, the SoftBank’s Masayoshi Son stated.
“I think this is the first time that mankind experienced something smarter than mankind itself,” he said ahead of Arm Holdings’ Nasdaq debut Thursday. “Mankind was the smartest animal on the earth, AI will surpass and surpass big time.”
The SoftBank founder and CEO called himself a “big believer” in AI, adding that Arm is a “core” beneficiary of the AI revolution. Son said he’s been an ardent supporter of microprocessors that enable technological evolution since he started SoftBank.
Arm’s initial public offering Thursday may end a two-year-long drought in large-scale technology initial public offerings. The IPO market ground to a halt along with tech stocks starting in early 2022, just as the Federal Reserve embarked on its most dramatic round of credit tightening in 40 years.
The 66-year-old founded SoftBank, which still controls about 90% of Arm Holdings after the IPO, in 1981 after graduating from the University of California at Berkeley. Forbes estimates his net worth at over $24 billion, making him the world’s 69th richest person.
Son made his early reputation as a backer of Japan’s mobile phone industry and became one of the first backers of Yahoo and Alibaba. Son continues to serve as the chairman of Arm’s board of directors.
To be sure, AI does pose some threats to humanity if mishandled, Son said, likening its potential misuse to the dangers of speeding or drinking alcohol while driving a car. But, more positively, AI can also help solve critical world problems like diseases or help mitigate or recover from natural disasters, he said.
“AI, society should regulate to protect humankind,” Son said. “However, it has more merit than the demerits. So, I think I’m a believer. I’m optimistic that AI will solve the issues that humanity couldn’t solve in the past.”
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.
Leave us a message
Subscribe
Fill the form our team will contact you
Advertise with us
Fill the form our team will contact you
