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While Others Cut Jobs, He Did not: Was It Risky or Brilliant Leadership?

Written by Admin • 2026-05-04 12:30:00

In the face of the COVID-19 pandemic, Cinema XXI's leadership chose not to cut jobs but to implement salary reductions among top management to preserve its workforce. This bold decision has paid off, culminating in a successful IPO in 2023 that highlights the importance of innovative leadership and long-term resilience.
While Others Cut Jobs, He Did not: Was It Risky or Brilliant Leadership?

While Others Cut Jobs, He Did Not: Was It Risky or Brilliant Leadership?

Exploring Hans Gunadi's bold decisions during the COVID-19 pandemic

A Bold Leadership Decision Amid Crisis

When the COVID-19 pandemic halted the global cinema industry, many companies resorted to immediate layoffs to cut costs. However, Cinema XXI, under the leadership of Hans Gunadi, chose a different approach. Instead of reducing its workforce, the company decided to implement collective salary cuts among top management to sustain operations. This strategic decision not only preserved jobs but also reinforced the institution's strength during an unprecedented crisis. By prioritizing their workforce over short-term financial relief, Cinema XXI positioned itself as a leader in business innovation.

This unconventional move challenged the prevailing narrative of crisis management. While many organizations made the difficult decision to downsize, Cinema XXI aimed for long-term resilience. By retaining its people, the company demonstrated a commitment to its employees, fostering loyalty and trust. This approach ultimately proved beneficial, as the company was able to maintain its operational capabilities and emerge stronger when the market began to recover.

The Outcome: A Successful IPO and Beyond

The fruits of this decision became evident in August 2023, when Cinema XXI successfully went public, raising approximately IDR 2.25 trillion. This milestone signifies more than just a financial recovery, it represents a profound digital business transformation. The leadership demonstrated by Hans Gunadi, characterized by trust and strategic patience, ultimately converged to create a competitive advantage. What initially appeared as a risky endeavor during the crisis turned into a pivotal moment for rebuilding momentum and growth.

This successful IPO is a testament to the effectiveness of prioritizing people over profits. By preserving jobs and fostering a culture of trust, Cinema XXI has set a new standard for corporate leadership during challenging times. This case study highlights the importance of responsible and ethical leadership, offering valuable insights for other organizations navigating their own crises.
In the middle of difficulty lies opportunity.
— Albert Einstein
Cinema XXI
— Cinema XXI

Impact on Society and the Corporate Landscape

Cinema XXI's decision to protect employment during an economically uncertain period reflects a responsible approach to corporate leadership. By demonstrating a commitment to their workforce, they not only safeguarded jobs but also strengthened long-term trust between the company and its employees. This kind of leadership contributes significantly to societal stability, particularly in challenging economic climates, and showcases the potential for businesses to act ethically while still achieving growth.
Facts & Insights
  • Cinema operations in many regions were fully halted during the COVID-19 pandemic.
  • Cinema XXI retained its workforce by implementing salary reductions at the leadership level.
  • The company successfully raised around IDR 2.25 trillion through its IPO in 2023.
2 years Duration of retained employment during pandemic
IDR 2.25 trillion Funds raised during IPO