Dave Duffield's Return to PeopleSoft
Posted On: 12/15/2006
Topic: Dave Duffield's return to CEO of PeopleSoft has varied implications. He promises more technological vision and innovation, but some analysts think he's merely back to prep the company for sale. What does his return mean to the company and its customers?
I've personally lived through two corporate buy-outs at separate employers prior to joining PeopleSoft in 1995. In neither of these cases did any of the executive management team, especially the CEO, make a personal commitment to try to keep the company independent. Not only did Dave make that statement, but he also made plans for a home purchase near Pleasanton to keep him closer to the action.
There aren't a whole lot of people in business anymore I tend to listen to and follow blindly. Dave is one of those guys. Recently in a letter to customers, Dave started to unveil some of his vision for PeopleSoft independence and improved shareholder value. The letter led off by talking about innovation and a renewed commitment to customers. There will be more announcements to come.
Although I don't sense these actions are merely an attempt to drive up the offer price, I do understand that many decisions are made by the board, the major shareholders, and not the CEO. From the employee's perspective all we can do is continue working, waiting and wondering about the final outcome. Time will tell of course, but most of us here plan on following Dave, Phil and the rest of the management team to the grave if necessary.
Dramatic statements you say? Yes, but you need to know Dave and most of the employees here to understand why they're easy to make.
Anonymous
Pleasanton, CA
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