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Creative Roots, Strategic Outcomes: CEO Childhood Imprints and the Pursuit of Innovation

Author

Listed:
  • Puya Kahhali

    (University of California, Riverside, California, U.S.A.)

  • Alexandru Roman

    (University of Maine, Maine, U.S.A.)

  • Haibo Liu

    (The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong)

Abstract

This study examines how CEOs’ early-life experiences shape strategic decision-making, focusing on the influence of parental creativity. Drawing on imprinting and upper echelons theories, we argue that CEOs with creatively employed parents develop an exploratory mindset that promotes greater investment in firm R&D. Crucially, we propose that this learning stems from behavioral modeling of exploratory mindsets through creative problem-solving—rather than the transmission of socioeconomic capital. Using a proprietary dataset of Fortune 100 CEOs and their parents’ occupations, we find robust support for this relationship. The effect is amplified under strong firm performance, while CEO age does not consistently weaken the relationship, suggesting that early-life imprints endure. These findings contribute to the upper echelons and organizational learning literatures by identifying a novel antecedent of CEO innovation behavior and highlighting the lasting influence of formative experiences on strategic choices.

Suggested Citation

  • Puya Kahhali & Alexandru Roman & Haibo Liu, 2026. "Creative Roots, Strategic Outcomes: CEO Childhood Imprints and the Pursuit of Innovation," American Business Review, Pompea College of Business, University of New Haven, vol. 29(1), pages 89-110, May.
    • Handle: RePEc:ris:ambsrv:022658
    DOI: 10.37625/abr.29.1.89-110
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    JEL classification:

    • M10 - Business Administration and Business Economics; Marketing; Accounting; Personnel Economics - - Business Administration - - - General
    • M12 - Business Administration and Business Economics; Marketing; Accounting; Personnel Economics - - Business Administration - - - Personnel Management; Executives; Executive Compensation
    • M14 - Business Administration and Business Economics; Marketing; Accounting; Personnel Economics - - Business Administration - - - Corporate Culture; Diversity; Social Responsibility

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