Sydney Finkelstein

Sydney Finkelstein is the Steven Roth Professor of Management and Director of the Center for Leadership at the Tuck School of Business at Dartmouth College, where he teaches courses on Leadership and Strategy. He is also the Faculty Director of the flagship Tuck Executive Program and the Associate Dean for Executive Education. Holding degrees from Concordia University and the London School of Economics, as well as a Ph.D. from Columbia University in strategic management, he brings a rich educational background to his roles. His academic tenure of over 25 years has been marked by a deep commitment to studying leaders and organizations.

Professor Finkelstein has published over 25 books and 90 articles, with several becoming bestsellers, including the #1 bestseller in the U.S. and Japan, "Why Smart Executives Fail". Based on a six-year study of 51 companies and 200 interviews of business leaders, the book explores the fundamental reasons behind major corporate failures and offers insights on how organizations can foster a culture of learning from mistakes. This work, featured globally and translated into 12 languages, has significantly influenced managerial practices and leadership training. His latest book, "SUPERBOSSES: How Exceptional Leaders Master the Flow of Talent", based on a decade of research, profiles notable business leaders who have excelled at developing talent within their companies. Praised by LinkedIn Chairman Reid Hoffman and GE Chairman Jeff Immelt, this book has established Finkelstein as a leading voice on talent management and organizational leadership.

In addition to his academic and writing achievements, Professor Finkelstein is a Fellow of the Academy of Management and has been nominated three times for the Academy’s Terry Book Award. His other accolades include being a finalist for the Academy of Management Executive Best Paper Award and receiving the McKinsey & Company Strategic Management Society Best Conference Paper Prize Honorable Mention. Recognized as a thought leader in his field, he is listed on the “Thinkers 50,” a prestigious ranking of global management thinkers. Professor Finkelstein’s expertise is regularly sought after by major global companies such as American Express, Boeing, and Chevron, enhancing corporate strategies and leadership practices. His keynote presentations, often focusing on leadership adaptability and decision-making, have been celebrated for their impact and relevance, helping professionals enhance their performance in both business and personal capacities. He also contributes as a regular columnist for the BBC, further extending his influence in the field of management and leadership.