The Outsiders

Eight Unconventional CEOs and Their Radically Rational Blueprint for Success

By William Thorndike

“The Outsiders” (2012) challenges traditional views on effective CEO leadership by profiling eight unconventional business leaders. It delves into their innovative, unexpected strategies that have led to remarkable success.

About William Thorndike

William Thorndike, founder and managing partner at Housatonic Partners, is a best-selling author and part-time lecturer at Stanford Business School.

The Unconventional Insights from Rarely Highlighted, high performing CEOs

When asked about the greatest CEO in business history, many think of Jack Welch of General Electric.

Known for his meticulous management and keen focus on stock prices, Welch epitomized the traditional CEO role. However, when evaluating CEOs based on the compound returns they provided to shareholders, compared to their peers and the S&P 500, Welch’s performance—exceeding the S&P by only 3.3%—may not seem as stellar.

Enter Henry Singleton, whose leadership yielded an astounding 20.4% above the S&P. Surprised by the name? This summary will unveil Singleton’s strategies and introduce another underrated CEO, offering valuable lessons from leaders who aren’t household names.