The Stupid Syndrome

Why Smart Leaders Fall for the Wrong Ideas

Published by Business Books
Distributed by Simon & Schuster

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About The Book

A 20-minute field guide to stop bad decisions.

Why do brilliant leaders believe in ideas that defy logic? Smart people make stupid decisions at work when speed, status, and noise drown out intelligence. The Stupid Syndrome is a business parable that shows you how to spot stupidity's early signals, arrest its slide, and reset decisions on facts. These pages deliver a tight, reusable framework, as well as tools such as the Veritas Model, the Reality Check, and the Recognise–Reflect–Review–Decide Loop. A candid field guide for leaders who want less theatre and more results. Read it in twenty minutes. Use it for years.

About The Author

Lord Gregory Henwood is an accomplished Group Chief Information and Operating Officer with more than three decades of experience driving business transformation, AI adoption, and operational excellence across multinational enterprises. He has overseen IT and operations for over 20,000 employees, led global service centres, and delivered strategic change programmes for multibillion-dollar organisations in manufacturing and FMCG sectors.

Recognised in the Business & Finance CIO 100 Index, Gregory has implemented industry-leading initiatives in AI-driven analytics, cybersecurity maturity, SAP HANA migrations, and cost optimisation — including reducing supplier costs by 30% and creating global centres of excellence. His work integrates technology strategy with behavioural insight, helping leadership teams navigate disruption with clarity and evidence-based decision-making.

A frequent speaker at leadership forums, AI summits, and technology conferences, Gregory is known for translating complex organisational challenges into practical strategies that deliver measurable results. The Stupid Syndrome is his debut book, blending storytelling, psychology, and practical frameworks to help leaders make better decisions in high-stakes, fast-changing environments.

Product Details

  • Publisher: Business Books (November 3, 2026)
  • Length: 96 pages
  • ISBN13: 9781806950126

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Raves and Reviews

Straightforward frameworks that travel well—boardroom to frontline, public or private sector—so leaders can make sharper calls and own the outcomes.

Denise McDonagh CBE,  Former CIO Private and Public sector, and Non executive Director

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