And it is visionary leadership that carries a company forward. According to Mann, effective leaders must project an image of integrity, commanding credibility, trust and respect from staff, customers and suppliers. When decisions must be made, leaders are decisive and responsive. They set an example, effectively delegate, establish clear objectives and expect quality performance, but are also patient and understanding.
A good leader, he says, is motivated not by his or her own self-interest but by the interests of the entity, its staff and its backers. He or she inspires others to share the vision and commit to building the venture over the long term, and conveys that all will share in the rewards as well as the struggles.
For all his ability, expertise, and accomplishment Mann is modest person, evidenced by his admiration for the women on the factory floor who assemble the cochlear implants.
“I don’t have the dexterity to do that,” he says. “They are absolutely integral to the company. It makes me angry when I hear business leaders take the credit for a company’s achievements. Success is a result of everyone’s contribution, at every level of an organization.
“If I’ve learned one essential lesson over all my years in business it is that the best leaders know their limitations. When I can’t do something, I get someone on the team who can.”
HOW TO REACH: MannKind Corp., 661-775-5300, www.MannKindcorp.com