Carly vs. Bono
U.S. Treasury Secretary John Snow said Sunday that U2 singer and iPod pitchman Bono might be considered to head the World Bank. [Missing Links]
That, of course, puts him in competition with former Hewlett-Packard CEO Carly Fiorina, whose name was floated for the job last week.
A tough choice, no doubt, for the financial body. Maybe we can help by seeing how the candidates stack up in various areas.
Works well with others
Fiorina: Brief co-headlining gig with Compaq chief Michael Capellas didn't work out too well.
Bono: Has performed duets with B.B. King, Luciano Pavarotti, Frank Sinatra and Beyonce.
Expertise in European history
Fiorina: Majored in medieval history in college.
Bono: Recorded breakthrough album in 17th century Irish castle.
Criminal background check
Fiorina: Investigated by federal regulators for tactics in mustering votes for HP's merger with Compaq.
Bono: Arrested by San Francisco police for vandalism after spray painting "Stop the Traffic. Rock and Roll." on city property during a free 1987 concert.
Financial performance
Fiorina: Fired for inconsistent revenue growth.
Bono: Led the music industry by grossing more than $110 million from last major tour.
Fighting stereotypes
Fiorina: Career has been an inspiration to female executives.
Bono: Career has been an inspiration to vertically challenged wannabe rock stars who happen to look a lot like Robin Williams.
Recent recognition
Fiorina: Awaiting delivery of $42 million severance package.
Bono: Awaiting U2's induction this year into Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
Conclusion: Bono has the backing of the London press and a much stronger money-management record. And think of the operational expenses he could save by combining World Bank meetings with concert tours. "We'd like to do a song by Lou Reed. But first, a little debate on Resolution 11-A02B..."