FedEx’s CEO landed his first job by taking a roommate’s abandoned interview. Now he’s running a $75 billion shipping giant

**From Abandoned Interview to $75 Billion Empire: FedEx CEO's Unlikely Rise to the Top**

Raj Subramaniam, the Indian-born CEO of FedEx, has achieved the unthinkable: transforming from a jobless MBA graduate into the leader of a $75 billion shipping giant. But what's even more remarkable is how he got his first job at the company – by taking his roommate's abandoned interview.

Background & Context

The early 1990s were a challenging time for job seekers, with America's recession pushing unemployment above 7% and hiring at a standstill. Despite holding scientific degrees from the Indian Institute of Technology Bombay and Syracuse University, Subramaniam found himself in the same boat as many others.

As a student at the University of Texas at Austin, completing his MBA in marketing and finance, Subramaniam's prospects seemed uncertain. However, his determination and willingness to seize opportunities would ultimately change the course of his career.

Key Details

In 1991, Subramaniam's roommate had been offered an interview at FedEx, but had decided to return to India, leaving the opportunity on the table. Subramaniam, who had been walking by the apartment, overheard the conversation and couldn't resist the chance to take the interview himself. He quickly picked up the phone and called the recruiter, asking if he could send his resume instead.

The rest, as they say, is history. Subramaniam's bold move marked the beginning of a three-decade journey that would see him rise through the ranks from an entry-level associate to the corner office. He relocated to FedEx's global headquarters in Memphis, Tennessee, and eventually took on increasingly larger international assignments, including overseeing marketing across the Asia-Pacific region from 1996 to 2003.

Subramaniam's success can be attributed to his willingness to say yes to new opportunities and take on challenges. "Pretty much every job that I've gotten – maybe with the exception of one or so – was somebody who said, 'Yep, I want you to do this'…[I] was given multiple opportunities, and I just took it," he said in an interview.

Today, as the CEO of FedEx, Subramaniam's leadership has been instrumental in driving the company's growth and innovation. Under his guidance, FedEx has expanded its services, invested in emerging technologies, and continued to push the boundaries of logistics and supply chain management.

What Experts Say

Subramaniam's story serves as a testament to the power of resilience, adaptability, and a willingness to take calculated risks. "It's a reminder that sometimes, the best opportunities can come from unexpected places," says a business expert. "Raj's story shows that with determination and hard work, anyone can achieve their goals, regardless of their background or circumstances."

Moreover, Subramaniam's journey highlights the importance of staying open-minded and seizing opportunities as they arise. "In today's fast-paced business environment, the ability to pivot and adapt quickly is crucial for success," notes a leadership expert. "Raj's story demonstrates that this mindset can take you a long way in achieving your goals."

Key Takeaways

• Take bold action: Subramaniam's willingness to take his roommate's abandoned interview led to his first job at FedEx.
• Be open to opportunities: Subramaniam's ability to say yes to new challenges and take on increasingly larger responsibilities helped him rise through the ranks.
• Develop a growth mindset: Subramaniam's willingness to learn and adapt to new situations and environments enabled him to achieve his goals.
• Stay adaptable: The ability to pivot and adapt quickly is crucial for success in today's fast-paced business environment.

What This Means For You

Subramaniam's story serves as a reminder that success is not solely determined by one's background or credentials. Rather, it's the willingness to take risks, adapt to new situations, and stay open-minded that can lead to achieving one's goals.

As you navigate your own career journey, remember that opportunities can arise from unexpected places. Stay alert, be willing to take calculated risks, and always keep your eyes on the horizon. You never know where your next opportunity may come from.