The Story Behind 30,000 Handwritten Notes to Employees | Grit in the Boardroom
- Aug 13, 2026
- 1:01
- Short
How Douglas R. Conant wrote 30,000 handwritten notes to Campbell Soup employees and why celebrating what works is a strategic decision.
Doug inherited Campbell at its lowest point: declining performance, damaged morale, and the worst employee engagement in the Fortune 500. Over a decade, he led one of the most celebrated turnaround stories in American business, proving that company culture change and commercial discipline are inseparable. He turned over 300 of the top 350 leaders, lifted engagement from the bottom of the Fortune 500 to among the best, and delivered top-tier shareholder returns, all while insisting that people come first.
Brief Summary
Handwritten notes to employees transformed Campbell's leadership culture.
Key points
- Handwritten Notes of Recognition. A heartfelt gesture of appreciation that transformed company culture.
