Product details

The case examines in detail the circumstances under which Jean Marie Messier (Messier) had to step down as the Chairman of the France-based Vivendi Universal (VU), the world''s second largest media company. The case discusses the problems that Messier, once lauded as one of the world''s leading businessmen, had to face and the criticism he received from the French business establishment, French media, industry observers and company shareholders. In addition, the case explains why Messier''s strategic plans for VU failed, and how his inclination towards the American style of management and his views regarding the French way of running businesses led to his downfall. After reading the case, students should be able to: (1) understand Messier''s entrepreneurial and leadership characteristics (growth, drive, imagination, beliefs and convictions) and the factors that contributed to his initial success; (2) analyse the basic beliefs, value system, business philosophy and style of Messier and understand how far they influenced his success or failure at VU; (3) appreciate the need to base accelerated growth on a sound financial strategy and the need to achieve synergy in operations; (4) the limitations or shortcomings of a leader and how they can become a stumbling block for success and survival; and (5) the importance of media management and crisis management skills for a leader, particularly when the public is involved. The case is intended for MBA/PGDBM level students as part of the entrepreneurship curriculum. The teaching note does not contain an analysis of the case.