Becoming a Top Manager

Becoming A Top Manager:
Tools and Lessons in Transitioning to General Management

Kevin Kaiser, Michael Pich, I. J. Schecter

What it’s about

We wrote this book to be a practical, narrative-driven guide designed to help functional leaders (e.g., heads of departments like finance or marketing) make the leap to senior general management roles, such as GM or CEO. Drawing from INSEAD's renowned Transition to General Management program, the book uses engaging stories of three fictional managers—each facing real-world challenges during their transitions—to illustrate the mindset shifts, skills, and tools needed for success. Rather than a dry textbook, it's an accessible blend of storytelling, executive insights, and actionable advice, emphasizing that becoming a top manager isn't just about climbing the ladder but transforming how you think, lead, and create value.

Why I like it

I like it because it gave me a reason to collaborate with good friends, Mike Pich and IJ Schecter, and also work with my wife, Katherine Philips Kaiser, who both provided feedback and also provided the technology that enabled us to crowd-source the content for this book. I also like this book because it is a practical guide to those managing a transition to general manager with perspectives and insights shared by those who have actually made the transition.