Book reading and reception with Wall Street businessman Joseph Grano

Joseph Grano reads from You Can’t Predict a Hero: From War to Wall Street, Leading in Times of Crisis (Wiley, 2009)

You Can’t Predict a Hero is the story of Wall Street businessman Joseph J. Grano, Jr., structured around six specific crises he faced in his life. From leading soldiers into combat as a Green Beret in Vietnam, to regrouping brokers during the market crash of 1987, to facilitating Wall Street’s reopening after the attacks on 9/11, Grano confronted problems head-on during some of the nation’s most trying moments. In his book, Grano describes how he learned to take charge and find solutions to daunting obstacles, effectively steering organizations through difficult times.  

Grano is Chairman and CEO of Centurion Holdings LLC, a company that advises private and public companies. Grano began his career as a stock broker at Merrill Lynch, where he rose to various senior management positions over sixteen years. From 2001-2004, Grano was Chairman of UBS Financial Services Inc. A decorated war hero, Grano was chosen by the White House to be chairman of the President’s Homeland Security Advisory Council after 9/11, a position he held from 2002-2005.

“Joe Grano is one of America’s great business leaders. There’s no one better at leading in a time of crisis.” (Lee Iacocca)

“I have read many books on ‘leadership.’ Joe Grano’s You Can’t Predict a Hero is, quite simply, the best by far. This is a terrific book, for the story it tells, for the lessons it teaches, and for the solutions it offers. I recommend it highly.” (George Pataki)

Free and open to the public. Seating is limited. Be prepared to show a photo ID to the building’s concierge.