Monday, April 4, 2011

Google's (GOOG) New CEO Ready for Prime Time?

With Google (NASDAQ:GOOG) co-founder Larry Page starting in his new position as CEO of the company today, there have been a number of observers who question whether Page is up to the task, taking into consideration some of his weaker traits.

Possibly of most concern is his past predilection for chasing after bizarre ideas. His overly-indulged rebellious streak and tendency to remaining aloof are other characteristics pointed out as questionable for someone taking the helm of a company like Google.

The question is probably more whether or not he can make the transition Steve Jobs did with Apple (NASDAQ:AAPL), where he was able to temper his idiosyncrasies and harness into tremendous creativity, but with discipline and control

Page retains similar characteristics in being smart, having a strong vision, and the passion to see it brought to fruition. But can someone like that embrace what Google has become without going off on tangent or odd directions? Only time will tell.

There are parameters in place which won't allow him to go too far astray. Think to Steve Jobs again. If he can be removed from Apple, like he was, Larry Page can surely be ousted at Google.

Of course he's been CEO before, but at that young age, including lack of discipline, it didn't work out for him or the company, and he was asked to step down.

Page has already made it clear as to what he has set as hit No. 1 priority, and that's to attack the bureaucracy and complacency he perceives at the company and start to act like a hunger startup again.

The bigger question is whether he can do it without instituting a shareholder rebellion against him. In other words, he can do what he wants as long as he's making them money. If he doesn't, there will be no doubt he will be shown the door once more.

But if he is able to make the changes while growing the company, he will position himself as another Steve Jobs who will be able to do little wrong.

At 38-years-old, that will guarantee him a job for life.

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