Reading ‘What It Takes: Lessons in Pursuit of Excellence’.
A brilliant book by Blackstone chairman, CEO, Co-founder Stephen A. Schwarzman on how to build, transform, lead thriving organisations. Spent a life learning, reflecting on what it takes to achieve excellence, make an impact, live a life of consequence.
Folding handkerchiefs in his father’s linen shop, dreamt of a larger life full of purpose, adventure. Started career in finance, working at Lehman Brothers to run mergers, acquisitions practice. Partnered with mentor, friend Pete Peterson to create Blackstone. Vowed to build a new, different financial institution.
Focused intensely on culture, hiring great talent, processes to systematically analyse, evaluate risk for rigour of investment process, innovative approaches, diversification of business lines, conviction to be the best.
An active philanthropist, donated more than a billion dollars. In philanthropy, as in business, drawn to possibilities where capital, energy can drive transformative solutions, change paradigms. Uses skills to design, establish, support impactful, innovative initiatives. Gifts range from College of Computing at MIT for Artificial Intelligence, performing arts center at Yale, renovation of iconic New York Public Library. A Scholars fellowship program in Beijing, largest international philanthropic effort in China.
Story is an empowering, entertaining, informative guide to strive for greater personal impact. From deal making to investing, leadership to entrepreneurship, philanthropy to diplomacy, lessons on how to think about purpose, ambition, scale, opportunities, success through relentless pursuit of excellence. A practical blueprint for success.
Absolutely worth a read…
