General management interview prep when AI builds the forecast

Defend the price, the cash and the cost of the next move.

What companies say they’re looking for

“a step up in price to offset the impact of higher commodity costs” (opens the source)

Fernando Fernandez, Chief Executive Officer · Unilever, Oct 28, 2026

Price, unit cost and demand must fit the same profit comparison. A higher revenue forecast can conceal a weaker operating result.

“Across our operations, volumes grew and asset utilisation was very high.” (opens the source)

Vincent Clerc, Chief Executive Officer · Maersk, Feb 5, 2026

A full operation is not necessarily a better business. Compare the new contract with the contribution from work it would replace.

“we are committed to maintaining 100% cash conversion” (opens the source)

Srinivas Phatak, Chief Financial Officer · Unilever, Feb 12, 2026

Profit and available cash answer different questions. Collections, inventory and capital spending determine whether the plan can be funded.

“our approach remains grounded in financial discipline and delivering tangible business impact” (opens the source)

Tan Su Shan, Chief Executive Officer · DBS, 2026

A productivity claim needs an economic mechanism. Count review, support and the costs that can actually be avoided.

“we’ve invested significantly more partner hours in our coffeehouses.” (opens the source)

Brian Niccol, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer · Starbucks, Sep 1, 2025

Extra frontline capacity can be a sound investment. Check its incremental contribution and whether the whole unit has a credible profit path.

Fernando Fernandez, Chief Executive Officer, at the time. Unilever, “Continued strong performance in the third quarter”, Oct 28, 2026. Open the source. Checked against the published text.
Vincent Clerc, Chief Executive Officer, at the time. Maersk, “Maersk delivered a strong 2025 with progress across the business”, Feb 5, 2026. Open the source. Checked against the published text.
Srinivas Phatak, Chief Financial Officer, at the time. Unilever, “Q4 and Full Year 2025 Results transcript”, Feb 12, 2026. Open the source. Checked against the published text.
Tan Su Shan, Chief Executive Officer, at the time. DBS, “CEO reflections in the 2025 annual report”, 2026. Open the source. Checked against the published text.
Brian Niccol, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, at the time. Starbucks, “Message from Brian: Thank you for a record-breaking week!”, Sep 1, 2025. Open the source. Checked against the published text.

Last reviewed Nov 10, 2026