[booop]

This sounds eerily similar to an experience I had. The CEO of a 10 year old company that kept growing in revenue and profits (even during the recession) went from being the most level headed and inspiring person to totally incompetent. He suddenly gave up and stopped coming to the office and and gave the employees a free reign to do what they wanted. Things actually worked but every time we needed his involvement he would show up and just fuck everything up.

After months of declining business he told me privately that the reason for his behavior was because he was burned out but felt everything could be fixed in 6 months. I didn't stay to find out and quit immediately. 6 months later those who remained ended up working 3 months without pay and found themselves out of a job while the CEO declared bankruptcy. Towards the end I heard he got more erratic and started blaming the employees, the board and everyone but himself for his situation.

It still baffles me how someone who seemed like he could turn anything to gold and had such good judgement could suddenly lose everything and become so hopeless because of burnout. Over a year later he still hasn't recovered and is being sued by several people.

Since you're an engineer - I'd say tell the board (verbally) what you think and put in a notice of resignation. If they change things for the better they might ask you to reconsider your resignation. If they take offense and side with the CEO - you're better off quitting anyway.

[meric]

We like to make fun of CEO's multi-million dollar salaries, but it doesn't mean it's an easy job.

[codegrunt]

Thanks for telling this story, it's enlightening.