Sir Richard Branson’s Planes, Trains, Resorts and Colas in 2004:
A case In Global Leadership
Introduction
Virgin is a leading branded venture capital organisation and is one of the world's most recognised and respected brands. Conceived in 1970 by Sir Richard Branson
Virgin Group has gone on to grow very successful businesses in sectors ranging from beverages, airlines, games, internet, cable TV, music, radio, cosmetics, jewellery, house ware, retail, mobile phones, financial services, fitness and much more.
Virgin has created more than 200 branded companies worldwide, employing approximately 50,000 people, in 29 countries. Global branded revenues in 2008 exceeded US$17 billion.
Sir Richard Branson’s Overview
Leadership Skills
According to Sir Richard Branson, Corporate Leadership requires two main areas:
Content Leadership
• Leader’s Attributes • Decision Making Skills
Context Leadership
• Variables dealing with a situation • Environment
Contd..
Intra-Company Competition is encouraged. Gave same priority to clerks & senior managers. Team building skills. Virgin Management Ltd (VML)
Companies Are considered part of family rather than hierarchy
Branson’s Diverse Approach
New Venture Strategy
Bizarre Promotional Strategy
Micro-Level Involvement
Macro-Level Involvement
Customer Service
Problems’ Pit
• Inadequacy
•Unmanageable Customers •Service
www.problemswithvirgin.com
Contd..
Virgin Clothing was closed in 2000 and Virgin Cosmetics posted a loss of £6.7 million for the financial year ending March 2001.
Future Prospects
Virgin Galactic. Virgin Earth Challenge.
Virgin Blue.
Entered U.S. by making a JV with Sprint. Plan to start Virgin U.S.A.