What It Takes: Lessons in the Pursuit of Excellence

By Stephen A. Schwarzman

'This story literally has what it takes: the anecdotes, the insights and, most of all, the values to guide the next generation of entrepreneurs' - Mark Carney

Blackstone chairman, CEO and co-founder Stephen A. Schwarzman shows readers how to build, transform and lead thriving organisations.

Stephen Schwarzman took $400,000 and cofounded Blackstone, the investment firm that manages over $500 billion and invests in hundreds of companies globally. He’s the CEO whose views are sought by heads of state around the world and supports universities with funding for cutting edge research and technology. But behind these accomplishments is a man who has spent his life learning and reflecting on what it takes to achieve excellence, make an impact and live a life of consequence.

Schwarzman’s story is an empowering, entertaining and informative guide for anyone striving for greater personal impact. From deal-making to investing, leadership to entrepreneurship, philanthropy to diplomacy, Schwarzman has lessons for how to achieve success through the relentless pursuit of excellence.

 

• Language: English
• Publisher: Simon & Schuster UK
• Release date: Sep 17, 2019
• ISBN: 9781471189562

Stephen A. Schwarzman

Stephen A. Schwarzman is Chairman, CEO and Co-Founder of Blackstone, one of the world’s leading investment firms. Mr. Schwarzman is an active philanthropist with a history of supporting education, culture, and the arts, among other areas. Mr. Schwarzman holds a BA from Yale University and an MBA from Harvard Business School. He lives in New York City with his wife and three dogs.

Reviews for What It Takes

[luneallan · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

A fantastic read, and some of the case shared help me spot how a local corporate is pulling the same tricks into small shareholders.

[Aaro · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

I didn't know what I was getting into when I started listening to this book; I had no idea who Stephen A. Schwarzman is and had not heard of Blackstone. But I'm glad I randomly chose to listen to it. Schwarzman comes off as a humble, intelligent, and insightful leader, and his stories of trials, both earlier and later in life, are interesting and full of wisdom that can be applied to anyone in an organizational setting. If you have inherited the idea that financial firm managers as sketchy money-grubbers, then this book will help change your mind.

[Iskander A · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

One of the key mentors to all of any age. Highest ethics redefined.

[Alex KN · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Very nice book. Any where you're as an entrepreneur. It changes your gut