This book provides a refreshing retrospective on the often overlooked management skills of the "CEO" who oversaw the largest logistical enterprise in the 20th century, the Normandy invasion. Using newly released archive papers and letters, as well as extensive library and historical resources, Alan Axelrod shows the remarkable leadership discipline of a general who could write a reassuring letter to a mother in one moment and settle personnel decisions impacting millions in the next. Axelrod shows how Ike was more than a great leader, but was also a great manager with an eye on the bottom line. Following the General's path as Supreme Commander from the invasion of North Africa to VE-day, lessons include: the nature of leadership; managing detail without sacrificing the "Big Picture"; ensuring follow-through to execution; building a team; converting conflict into common cause; getting the facts and making plans; and mentoring, motivating, and inspiring.

Introduction : the soldier as CEO -- Time of trial : Ike and America enter the war -- From African victory to Sicilian conquest -- Supreme commander -- From crisis to victory.