CFO Slice

H&R Block chief executive Curtis Campbell has said the biggest barrier preventing middle managers from reaching the C-suite is a deeply human fear of rejection that stops them from seeking mentorship, building relationships, and learning from others. Campbell, who rose from a modest background to lead the company, emphasizes that career advancement depends less on raw intelligence and more on persistence, strong performance, and a willingness to ask for guidance. He encourages professionals to actively seek out colleagues with specific strengths, noting that learning directly from high performers can accelerate development more than formal programs. He stresses that visibility and networking only matter when backed by consistently high-quality work, arguing that credibility is built through excellence in any role. Ultimately, Campbell said those who overcome hesitation, deliver strong results, and proactively learn from others are more likely to break out of mid-level roles and advance into senior leadership.