Chapter 5, Getting Closer to the Big Leagues Summary and Analysis

At 36, Jack is a GE vice president. By June 1973 Jack is promoted to head of strategic planning for the entire company. He still remains responsible for the chemical and metallurgical division. As group executive, Jack adds a more diverse portfolio and global operations. Jack becomes highly visible to the corporation and is very much on the radar screen. He is expected to move to New York corporate headquarters. In typical Jack Welch fashion, he convinces Herm Weiss to allow him to remain in Pittsfield. He rationalizes that he has built solid relationships during his more than 13 years there, and that his new position will require him to be in the field with businesses most of the time. He also promises to arrive on time for monthly meetings at the...