Thursday, June 11, 2009

Ken Feinberg, not a Czar, but a Mediator

Kenneth R. Feinberg, recently named by the Obama administration as Special Master of Executive Compensation of corporations receiving TARP money, is being called the "Pay Czar." But as the New York Times reports today, "If there is one thing Kenneth R. Feinberg does not like to be called, it is a czar." In the dispute resolution community, Feinberg is known for being a master mediator -- one who helps disputants resolve conflict voluntarily -- by using persistence, patience, and subject matter knowledge to resolve complex problems without litigation. For insights into Feinberg's mediation style, read his book about presiding over the September 11 Victim's Compensation Fund, "What is Life Worth?: The Inside Story of the 9/11 Victims Compensation Fund" (2006)[http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_ss_gw?url=search-alias%3Dstripbooks&field-keywords=What+is+Life+Worth%3F&x=8&y=14]. Feinberg uses empathy (apparently a dirty word in some legal circles) and doggedness to help people sort out the complex emotional and economic issues attendant to some of the most difficult personal and business problems they face. Know any Czars famous for that?

2 comments:

John said...

I was one of the hundreds, if not thousands, denied benefits for 9/11 injuries: maybe you can explain for him how he could ignore doctor's certifications, the law, etc: you know, the little things. Feinberg came across - by his own self-promotion - as someone who saved the government billions in payouts. Sure did - he simply ignored the WRITTEN GUIDELINES. I have all the documentation, and notes of his conversations with my attorney. If anyone REALLY wants the truth please contact me...you would be helping hundreds of victims.

Anonymous said...

I can not believe that this evil bastard, (Ken Feinberg) is still breathing the same air that hard working Americans are.
Since he has taken over the BP Oil spill he promises that he will not spend anywhere near the $20 Billion, BP was forced to place in an escrow account. He is getting paid $850,000 a month to screw Gulf Coast communities. He has lied to claimants, to the media and even instructed his own people to lie.