The resignation of Dhiraj Saxena, Chief Technical Officer (CTO) of Poonawalla Fincorp, citing alleged harassment and unwarranted interventions by the Chief Human Resources Officer (CHRO), has brought executive-level conflicts into sharp focus.
A brewing storm - conflicts among CXOs often stem from overlapping responsibilities, undefined boundaries, or clashing visions.
To avoid such clashes, CEOs must invest in team-building activities that foster strategic alignment and mutual respect.
The CEO must step into a pivotal role—not just as an authority figure but as a mediator and culture custodian.
When CEOs ignore executive-level conflicts, the consequences extend far beyond the individuals involved.
Resolving such disputes requires the CEO to act as a bridge, fostering processes that accommodate both innovation and governance.
CXOs must align with not just operational goals but also cultural values.
For CEOs, the challenge is not just resolving conflicts but embedding resilience into their leadership teams.
Effective mediation, grounded in fairness, role clarity, and cultural alignment, is essential to prevent leadership conflicts from spiralling into public exits or operational crises.
When handled well, differences among CXOs can become a source of strength, driving innovation and collaboration.