In a career that has seen him face coup leaders in his native Ivory Coast and lead some of the most prestigious Western financial institutions, Tidjane Thiam has blazed a trail through African and European politics and business.



After a childhood in tumultuous west and north Africa, Thiam broke barriers in the elitist world of French higher education, becoming one of the first black consultants at McKinsey and Company before entering the Ivorian government. After a coup forced him into exile, he joined the world of finance, where his rise saw him named as CEO of Prudential in London and Credit Suisse in Zurich. Along the way, he was trained and supported by many both in the public and private sector who made his many achievements as a leader possible. However, his rise to prominence as the only African, black and Muslim boss of large Western corporations was also accompanied with disproportionate public and media scrutiny, as well as racism and xenophobia.


A blend of autobiography, business, politics, and personal philosophy, his book offers a unique vantage point on corporate and political life in Africa, Europe, the United States and Asia. In a story that spans from his father’s politically motivated imprisonment to the business principles that took Thiam to the top of global finance, he shares a personal and professional story that is equal parts inspirational and aspirational.