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Welch was not just a CEO; he was the first celebrity CEO, attracting public attention comparable to that of sports and entertainment figures. His leadership transformed GE from a respected industrial giant into one of the most valuable companies in the world. Welch was relentless in his pursuit of profit maximization, often criticized for the massive layoffs that characterized his management style. Despite the backlash, he firmly believed these layoffs were necessary for a healthier, leaner corporate structure. His mantra, “If you’re not first, you’re last,” encapsulated his aggressive corporate strategy.