Internet business guru Maynard Webb to speak at ASU SkySong

The ASU Foundation for A New American University is offering Valley residents an exceptional afternoon with Silicon Valley company builder, business adviser and philanthropist Maynard Webb.

Webb, whose career in the technology industry spans three decades, is an Internet-business legend. As COO of eBay he grew the online auction company’s revenue from $140 million to more than $6 billion. Webb will appear at Arizona State University’s SkySong campus in Scottsdale for a luncheon lecture on April 15, as part of the foundation’s Presidential Engagement Programs. Tickets are $25, and parking is free. Advance registration is required at asufoundation.org/PEPwebb.

Even more than for his substantial business successes, Webb receives accolades for his willingness to share his techniques and philosophy, making him a much sought-after mentor and problem-solver for enterprises and entrepreneurs. His latest book, “Rebooting Work,” takes a more personal approach to a widespread problem: job dissatisfaction.

“Work should be a place of inspiration and innovation,” Webb writes. “It should not be unfulfilling. But for all too many, it is. I wrote this book to help individuals understand that it is within their power to end the current work crisis and move on to careers that can provide both fulfillment and financial security.” Webb will sign copies of the book, which will be available at the PEP event.

Webb blames the problem of job dissatisfaction on models of work created a century ago that no longer sync with the needs of individuals or employers. In “Rebooting Work,” he proposes a unique framework for leveraging technology to create better job opportunities and bring balance to one’s life. Webb identifies four different mindsets around work: the company man or woman, CEO of your own destiny, the disenchanted employee and the aspiring entrepreneur. As individuals better understand which of these mindsets represents them, they are able to adapt and move from one frame to another, gaining tools to become more self-actualized and fulfilled in their careers.

Webb shares his expertise and encouragement not only with companies who can afford to hire him, but with young people who can’t. In 2004 he and his wife, Irene, created the Webb Family Foundation to provide education and support for underprivileged, motivated young women and men, helping them beat the odds against their success and make positive impacts on the world through innovation and hard work.

Webb’s visit to SkySong begins with a lunch at 12:30 p.m., followed by an introduction and remarks by Amy Hillman, who became dean of the ASU’s W. P. Carey School of School of Business this month. Webb’s presentation will follow, with time for questions from the audience. A book-signing opportunity will be available after the Q&A, and the program will end at 2:30 p.m.

For information on this ASU Foundation Presidential Engagement Program, contact PEP Director Sally Moore at 480-965-4814 or sally.moore@asu.edu. Register for the event online at asufoundation.org/PEPwebb.

Erik Ketcherside, erik.k@asu.edu
Communications Manager | Editorial Services
ASU Foundation for A New American University
480-965-0545