American Express CEO and Chairman Kenneth Chenault outlined the qualities of good leadership to a capacity crowd Thursday afternoon in Huntsman Hall.
"I am passionate about leadership," Chenault said.
He further stated that in the business world, "the demand for, the understanding of and commitment to leadership is critical."
Presented as part of the Wharton Leadership Lecture Series, Chenault chronicled his time spent at American Express over the past 24 years. He emphasized his experiences from the past four years after he assumed the helm, along with the leadership aspects important for success.
Highlighting virtues such as courage, integrity, consistency and adaptability, Chenault cited several examples of how his leadership beliefs and style have helped American Express overcome difficult periods.
In confronting challenges, Chenault stressed the importance of communication.
"You don't talk down to people; you, in fact, tell them the reason why" changes need to be made, he said.
Chenault also underlined the need for leaders to be both decisive and compassionate.
"If you stand for integrity you have a remarkable advantage in the market," Chenault said.
First-year Wharton graduate student Ije Ikoku described the event as "inspirational and educational."
First-year Wharton graduate student Amy Dahm was drawn to the event by curiosity.
"I am always fascinated by life's path," Dahm said. "I think he was very good at outlining what drives him personally and what drives good leaders."
"I look towards Ken as a role model for me as a leader," said Howard Katzenberg, a current Wharton graduate student and former employee of American Express.
Chenault graduated from Bowdoin College in 1973 and Harvard Law School in 1976.
Prior to beginning his career with American Express in 1981, Chenault worked as a management consultant for Bain & Company and as an associate with the law firm of Rogers & Wells.
Organizers also seemed pleased with the event.
Wharton graduate student and event organizer Zachary Treuhaft described the lecture as "spectacular."
