If your definition of a ceo is that cynical, sure. Average people expect more; which I understand is an awful lot to all of, checks notes, the best paid person in a company.

Seriously, if a ceo needs to stoop to manipulation to get things done then they’ve lost control of the entire company and manipulation is forestalling the inevitable. Sure, a bad ceo can create large returns for investors but people who hold such myopic views of success navigate life with their training wheels still on.