Subject category:
Human Resource Management / Organisational Behaviour
Published by:
INSEAD
Version: 02/2024
Length: 27 pages
Data source: Field research
Abstract
This case provides an opportunity to explore the person-organisation interface. From a developmental point of view, it examines the making of an entrepreneur. The case also allows for an exploration of the vicissitudes of leadership. It looks at effective leadership in the context of a high performance organisation, and finally, incites discussion about planning for the future of an entrepreneurial organisation, in particular the use of brand to enter new, unrelated markets. The case focuses on leadership in a creative, entrepreneurial organisation. Virgin has made many brilliant moves and weathered spectacular setbacks. The case offers insight into these and other management issues that have come to the fore in Virgin's history. Among them are: (1) the transition from entrepreneurial to more conventional, 'systematic' management; (2) the formulation of strategy for, and the management of, rapid growth around stretching of a brand, particularly expansion into unrelated areas and expansion overseas; (3) the management of strategic alliances; (4) the development of a corporate culture centered around youth and informality; (5) a preference for promotion of insiders who 'fit' rather than outside candidates; (6) the management of creativity; and (7) the transition from a private enterprise to a public company and back again to private.
Teaching and learning
This item is suitable for undergraduate, postgraduate and executive education courses.Time period
The events covered by this case took place in 1968-2000.Geographical setting
Region:
Europe
Country:
United Kingdom
Featured company
Virgin Group
Industry:
Entertainment, airline
Featured protagonist
- Richard Branson (male), Founder
About
Abstract
This case provides an opportunity to explore the person-organisation interface. From a developmental point of view, it examines the making of an entrepreneur. The case also allows for an exploration of the vicissitudes of leadership. It looks at effective leadership in the context of a high performance organisation, and finally, incites discussion about planning for the future of an entrepreneurial organisation, in particular the use of brand to enter new, unrelated markets. The case focuses on leadership in a creative, entrepreneurial organisation. Virgin has made many brilliant moves and weathered spectacular setbacks. The case offers insight into these and other management issues that have come to the fore in Virgin's history. Among them are: (1) the transition from entrepreneurial to more conventional, 'systematic' management; (2) the formulation of strategy for, and the management of, rapid growth around stretching of a brand, particularly expansion into unrelated areas and expansion overseas; (3) the management of strategic alliances; (4) the development of a corporate culture centered around youth and informality; (5) a preference for promotion of insiders who 'fit' rather than outside candidates; (6) the management of creativity; and (7) the transition from a private enterprise to a public company and back again to private.
Teaching and learning
This item is suitable for undergraduate, postgraduate and executive education courses.Settings
Time period
The events covered by this case took place in 1968-2000.Geographical setting
Region:
Europe
Country:
United Kingdom
Featured company
Virgin Group
Industry:
Entertainment, airline
Featured protagonist
- Richard Branson (male), Founder