A newly appointed CEO arrives at work on his first day and notices three envelopes in his desk drawer along with a hand-written note from his predecessor: "if you have any difficulties managing the company you can't handle, open these envelopes one at a time." 1/
After a few months in his new role the CEO finds himself embroiled in a big labour dispute, so he opens the first envelope: "Blame your predecessor." the note inside read. The new CEO thought this was great, laid all the blame at the foot of his predecessor and quelled unrest. 2/
Two years later the CEO finds himself in a big product design scandal so he opens the second envelope: "Hire a consultant." So the CEO brings in a big consulting firm and promises investors and his board that the issues are in good hands. 3/
Three years later the CEO finds himself embroiled in a big pay equity issue he feels he can't handle, so he opens the third envelope. The note inside read: "Prepare three envelopes." 4/4
