Product details

This is the second of a three-case series (499-002-1 to 499-004-1). The case series describes events at First Financial Services (a ''top ten'' firm in its field) concerning new product development initiatives, a succession planning process, and the structure and dynamics of strategic planning. The descriptions are provided by two protagonists in the case, Kathryn Ekdal, a seasoned female executive, and Andrew Boldt, an Executive Vice President nearing retirement. The A case opens with Ms Ekdal reflecting on what she might have learned from these events, and the C case closes with her resolution of personal issues. The teaching objectives may include: (1) self-analysis and career choice; (2) understanding executive competition for positions of power and authority; (3) understanding typologies of executive psychology and behaviour; and (4) understanding the role of new product development screening and investment in altering the future of the company. The case offers instructors great flexibility in that Ms Ekdal and Mr Boldt speak directly to students in their own words.