Adam Neumann at WeWork: Curiosity in Leadership

Case Study

Adam Neumann’s tenure as CEO of WeWork is a compelling case study on how curiosity in leadership can lead to rapid growth and expansion, but also to significant challenges and setbacks. Neumann’s vision and ambition drove WeWork to become a leading global co-working space provider. However, his curiosity-driven approach also led to a lack of sustainable business practices, financial instability, and governance issues, culminating in a failed IPO and his resignation. This case study explores Neumann’s journey at WeWork, analyzing the key events, outcomes, and lessons learned.

Background Information

Adam Neumann was born on April 25, 1979, in Tel Aviv, Israel. He moved to the United States in 2001 and attended Baruch College in New York City. Neumann’s entrepreneurial spirit was evident early on, as he started several ventures before co-founding WeWork. In 2010, Neumann, along with Miguel McKelvey, co-founded WeWork, aiming to create a co-working space that fostered community and collaboration among entrepreneurs and businesses.

WeWork’s concept was simple yet innovative: provide shared office spaces with a focus on community, flexibility, and amenities that cater to startups and freelancers. This idea quickly gained traction, and under Neumann’s leadership, WeWork…