William W. George is a distinguished American businessman and academic, renowned for his contributions to leadership and ethics. He serves as a Professor of Management Practice and a Henry B. Arthur Fellow of Ethics at Harvard Business School, where he shares his extensive knowledge and insights with future leaders. His academic tenure has been marked by a commitment to fostering ethical leadership, significantly influencing the next generation of business executives.

Before his academic career, George had a remarkable journey in the corporate world. He began his career at the United States Department of Defense, where he honed his leadership skills as Assistant to the Assistant Secretary of Defense. He then transitioned to the private sector, serving as President of Litton Microwave Cooking Products and later as Executive Vice President at Honeywell. His most notable role came when he joined Medtronic in 1989, where he served as President and Chief Operating Officer before becoming CEO in 1991. Under his leadership, Medtronic expanded its global reach and solidified its position as a leader in medical technology.

In addition to his corporate achievements, George has made significant contributions to various boards, including Target Corporation and Novartis. His leadership has been recognized with numerous awards, including the Bower Award for Business Leadership and election to the National Academy of Engineering, underscoring his impact on healthcare and engineering.

George’s management philosophy emphasizes authenticity and well-being, advocating for a leadership style that prioritizes purpose and values. His publications, including “Authentic Leadership” and “True North,” have become essential readings for aspiring leaders, further solidifying his legacy as a transformative figure in both business and academia.