LOOK carefully. The grunt working the graveyard shift at your company may secretly be the CEO on a new reality show called “Undercover Boss.”
CBS quietly picked up “Undercover Boss” late last week, just before it is due to air in Britain and Australia.
In each episode of the UK version, a different boss (it could be anyone from an executive vice-president to a head honcho) slips into crummy clothes and the lowest level jobs in their own companies where – the thinking is – they will not be recognized.
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The undercover boss handles the dirtiest, dreariest position, taking orders from mid-level managers, for at least 10 days before revealing his or her true identity.
When the experiment is over, the boss supposedly gains new understanding of the business and makes the necessary changes that make things run better.
“Unrecognized talent is reward or promoted – and poor performers will have nowhere to hide,” according to the promos.
CBS did not say when production on the show might begin but it appears to be one of the series under consideration for next fall.
“Undercover Boss” is strikingly similar to “Secret Millionaire,” the Fox show from last fall that was a qualified hit in the ratings and produced a fair amount of buzz.
On that show, millionaires go undercover in a rough neighborhood, volunteering at worthwhile institutions.
After a few days, they reveal their true identities and distribute money – from their personal fortunes – to deserving individuals.
Fox officials have yet to officially make an offer to renew the show, according to sources.