At the Crossroads of Power: Which Road to Take?
2026
| Case No.
OB121
| Length
7 pgs.
Just one year into her position at KKR Capstone, Stanford GSB graduate Aislin Roth unexpectedly receives two compelling job offers in the rapidly evolving field of artificial intelligence: a newly created role working closely with Meta’s Chief AI Officer, Alexandr Wang, and a chief of staff position at a fast-growing, well-funded AI start-up. Although happy at KKR, Roth recognizes that both opportunities could accelerate her career and provide new paths to power and influence. Each offers distinct advantages and risks. At Meta, she would gain access to powerful leaders, influential networks, and opportunities to make an impact at enormous scale, but would need to navigate a complex, highly political organization. At the start-up, she could exercise significant influence from the outset and help shape a young company, albeit in the face of greater uncertainty. With two offers expiring in five days, Roth must decide which path will best position her to acquire and exercise power while advancing her long-term professional and personal goals.
Learning Objective
This case examines how individuals can strategically acquire and exercise power through career decisions, professional relationships, and organizational positioning. Students will analyze the different paths to power available to Aislin Roth as she weighs opportunities at KKR, Meta, and a rapidly growing AI start-up. They will consider the relative advantages of proximity to powerful leaders versus direct decision-making authority; the importance of networks, mentors, and sponsors in creating and evaluating opportunities; and the role of organizational structure and politics in determining an individual’s ability to exert influence. The case also encourages students to assess how personal strengths, risk tolerance, professional ambitions, and lifestyle priorities should inform career choices. Ultimately, students will consider how to make strategic decisions that enhance their long-term power and influence as they pursue to their goals and retain their values.
This material is available for download by current Stanford GSB students, faculty, and staff only. For inquiries, contact the
Case Writing Office.
Download