Xerox CEO Bandrowczak Shares Insights on Leadership Transition

Xerox CEO Steve Bandrowczak, who took over the top job in 2023 following the sudden death of his predecessor, has shared his insights on the dramatic shift in responsibilities and mindset required for the role. Speaking at a recent summit, Bandrowczak emphasized that while executives often feel prepared for the next role, the reality of the CEO position is vastly different.

Having spent five years as Xerox’s COO, Bandrowczak was well-versed in driving change and making cultural shifts. However, he found that the CEO role demanded a new level of leadership and a deeper understanding of the company's culture, shareholders, employees, and partners. He highlighted that the CEO must be the face of the company and drive the culture from the top, acknowledging the things they do not know and being open to learning.

Bandrowczak noted that the transition from second-in-command to CEO requires a shift in identity and a broader perspective. Building a board is different from working with one, and presenting to a committee does not prepare executives for the total ownership that comes with the CEO role. He encouraged aspiring CEOs to attend leadership and board courses to better prepare for this transition.

His personal journey, from being disowned by his family and working nights to pay for college to leading a multi-billion-dollar enterprise, has instilled in him a mindset built for conquering adversity. Bandrowczak believes that leading a company is not about having all the answers but about having the resilience to ask better questions and the courage to embrace change with excitement.

Bandrowczak sees the rapid evolution of AI as a once-in-a-generation opportunity to reshape industries. At Xerox, AI has prompted the company to rethink its approach to data, modernize print, and diversify revenue through its growing IT business. He views this period of rapid change as the greatest opportunity for leaders to make a significant impact.

Navigating disruption, according to Bandrowczak, requires self-awareness and the willingness to take ownership of one's destiny. He advises leaders to look in the mirror and make the necessary changes if they are not satisfied with what they see. This self-awareness is crucial for embracing change and driving the company forward in an ever-evolving business landscape.