Publications
Publications
- November 1996
- HBS Case Collection
Del Webb Corporation (C), The
By: Jay W. Lorsch and Samanta Graff
Abstract
Dion and the other Del Webb directors were open to having Industrial Equity Pacific (IEP) and Webcott Holdings representation on the board. The IEP representative was perceived as reserved and lacking in sophistication. Cotter of Webcott, however, struck the directors as savvy but antagonistic and disruptive. Cotter's goal was to position the company as a possible takeover target, and he agitated in the boardroom for changes that he felt would open up the company to potential acquirers. He also launched a proxy battle in an attempt to eliminate Dion's golden parachute and the company's poison pill.
Keywords
Crisis Management; Management Succession; Strategic Planning; Governing and Advisory Boards; Horizontal Integration; Conflict Management
Citation
Lorsch, Jay W., and Samanta Graff. "Del Webb Corporation (C), The." Harvard Business School Case 497-019, November 1996.