The Turnaround Kid

About the Author

Steve Miller, often dubbed the "turnaround kid," has carved a unique niche for himself in the corporate world. Over the last two decades, he has been at the helm of some of the most challenging corporate turnarounds in American business history. His reputation for reviving failing enterprises and navigating through financial crises is well-earned. Beyond his professional achievements, Miller's personal life story, intertwined with his late wife Maggie, adds a poignant dimension to his narrative. His grandfather's influence, growing up around a lumber mill in Oregon, instilled in him a work ethic that would shape his approach to business and life.

Main Idea

"The Turnaround Kid" is a compelling memoir that blends the high-stakes world of corporate rescue missions with the deeply personal story of Steve Miller. The book offers readers a rare insight into the pressures and strategies involved in saving failing companies while also highlighting the human side of these intense experiences. Miller's journey is not just about financial strategies and boardroom battles; it is also a testament to resilience, dedication, and the enduring American spirit. His ability to connect his professional endeavors with personal anecdotes creates a narrative that is both inspiring and educational.

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. The Making of a Turnaround Specialist
3. Chrysler: The First Major Challenge
4. The Delphi Dilemma
5. Lessons Learned from the Front Lines
6. The Human Side of Corporate Rescues
7. Future Outlook for American Industry

Introduction

Steve Miller begins his memoir not with corporate triumphs, but with a deeply personal moment—the passing of his beloved wife, Maggie. This poignant beginning sets the tone for a book that is as much about human endurance and empathy as it is about business acumen. Miller's recounting of these moments provides a glimpse into the man behind the executive title, making it clear that his approach to business is deeply influenced by his personal values and experiences.

"Miller is unafraid of recounting what is certainly one of the darkest moments of his life. He shows a humanity that is often called into question when the public imagines the life of a CEO or top executive." - Steve Miller

The Making of a Turnaround Specialist

Miller's journey to becoming a turnaround specialist is rooted in his early experiences working in his grandfather's lumber mill. These formative years instilled in him a profound respect for hard work and the efforts of everyday workers. This respect would later influence his approach to corporate turnarounds, where he always sought to understand and preserve the human element of business.

Early Career and Influences

After business school, Miller joined the Ford Motor Company, embarking on a globetrotting career that took him to various outposts, including Mexico, Australia, and Venezuela. These experiences broadened his perspective and prepared him for the complexities of international business.