I never trust an executive who tends to pass the buck. Nor would I want to deal with him as a customer or a supplier.

James Cash Penney, the founder of the J.C. Penney retail chain, made this statement to emphasize the importance of accountability in leadership. By saying, “I never trust an executive who tends to pass the buck,” Penney highlights that leaders who avoid taking responsibility for mistakes or challenges are not trustworthy. Passing the buck—shifting blame onto others—shows a lack of integrity and ownership, qualities that are essential in both business and personal relationships.

The quote reflects Penney’s belief that strong executives must be willing to accept responsibility for their decisions. Leaders who are quick to assign blame often create a culture of fear and mistrust within their teams. Penney goes further by stating he would not want to deal with such a person as a customer or supplier, illustrating how a lack of accountability damages relationships beyond the walls of the company.

The origin of this statement ties to Penney’s lifelong commitment to ethical business practices. He built his company on principles of honesty, service, and mutual respect. For him, accountability was not just a leadership quality but a cornerstone of building enduring relationships with employees, customers, and partners.

Ultimately, Penney’s message is timeless: trust is the foundation of all successful relationships in business. Leaders who “pass the buck” erode that trust, while those who take ownership build credibility, loyalty, and long-term success.