Chapter 579: An Impossible Task for Manuel
In the senior meeting room, the company's cadre employees and Susan Phillips—whose position held little consequence—gathered. Susan listened impassively as her father analyzed the serious situation, a gravity lost on her due to her lack of professional dedication.
Her gaze swept the room, noting the somber expressions. Finally, her eyes settled on Manuel, seated beside her father. Compared to the others, Manuel's composure was striking. He attentively followed Edward's account of International Sway Bank's potential impact on Phillips Bank, occasionally lowering his head to jot down keywords. Unlike the others, who voiced their anxieties, Manuel remained silent.
Henry, for example, was visibly agitated, frequently glancing at Manuel, whether intentionally or not. Sway Bank's arrival, they all understood, would trigger a fierce competition for market share, sharply reducing Phillips Bank's yearly turnover. This was particularly troubling given Manuel's bold promise, made before the senior leadership, to increase turnover by 50% within half a year—a target only two months away. Henry, anticipating Manuel's failure, felt a surge of excitement.
Suddenly, Henry noticed Susan watching Manuel. He sensed a growing distance between himself and Susan, a waning affection. He clenched his fists. His plans, once Manuel was ousted, involved marrying Susan and eventually gaining control of Phillips Bank and its associated holdings. His animosity toward the Phillips family stemmed from Edward's role in his family's demise.
"I think you all understand," Edward said, concluding his detailed explanation of Sway Bank's threat. "We face a difficult challenge. I expect everyone to give their all. Sway Bank won't easily succeed in Kensbury City without a strong start; let's ensure we do our jobs properly and avoid complacency."
The employees immediately affirmed their commitment. For the first time, Susan admired her father's leadership, contrasting it with her previous disdain, born from her perception of his obsession with Justine.
Following the pep talk, Edward delegated tasks and prepared to leave.
"Mr. Chairman," a board member interjected, drawing everyone's attention. "Sway Bank's imminent entry will significantly impact us. We will, of course, strive to maintain Phillips Group's market share."
Edward's expression showed his disinterest in such platitudes.
"Now, I'd like to confirm something," he began, anticipating a discussion of overtime and compensation.
The board member interrupted, "I recall Mr. Johnson's promise to increase Phillips Group's turnover by 50% within half a year. I'd like confirmation on whether he still intends to fulfill this promise."
Edward's face fell.
"Is that relevant now?" Edward asked coldly.
"My apologies, Mr. Chairman. I don't mean to cause trouble at this critical juncture, but many board members and senior leaders question Mr. Johnson's suitability for his position. We only accepted it because of his promise. Given current circumstances, I simply want clarification."
Edward attempted to deflect, but Manuel, having been taking notes, calmly stated, "A promise is a promise."
Edward felt Manuel's youth had allowed him an escape route; yet, Manuel's forthrightness now placed him in a precarious position. The board had long debated Manuel's position, a debate Edward had previously ignored. This time, however, Manuel had made a serious misstep.
"Are you sure?" the board member, Bob Simonds, pressed.
"Yes," Manuel replied.
"Phillips Bank's turnover has only shown an 8% year-on-year growth in the past four months, far from the target. Given this, do you truly believe you can achieve your goal?" Simonds asked sarcastically.
Manuel remained composed. "My word is my bond. I didn't qualify it with conditions. Mr. Simonds, rest assured. There are two months left; I'll accept responsibility and resign if I fail."
"Good!" Simonds exclaimed, pleased with his tactic. He adopted a righteous tone. "You're young and capable. I'll bet on your ambition and look forward to your success." His words were veiled with the expectation of Manuel's imminent failure.
Manuel simply nodded, his demeanor calm. Discussion filled the room. Susan observed the reactions around her, realizing the task ahead of Manuel seemed insurmountable.