Afleveringen
-
In the world of business branding, there are 2 kinds of organizations. The ones that talk about what they do, and the ones that focus on what makes them unique.
You can guess which one grows faster and has more loyal customers.
Branding is non-negotiable - itâs the only way to stand out in a crowded marketplace.
In this industry, many companies donât do enough to brand themselves differently, or the brands they do have are stuck in the past. As a result, there are hundreds of companies people canât really tell apart.
Thatâs why itâs critical to take diligent steps to be memorable and recognizable.
How do you know itâs time to rebrand? What are the pillars of a good brand? How can legacy brands harness all their digital power?
In this episode, Iâm joined by CEO and Founder of Moxie Global Consulting, Melissa Thomas. We talk about my recent rebrand, and inventive ways to make your brand come across differently.
Thereâs a big difference between branding that tells you what a company does and branding that tells you why they do it or how they solve a problem. -Melissa Thomas
Things Youâll Learn In This Episode
-Put both your feet in the digital world
The world may have moved to the digital space but a lot of companies still havenât caught up. Why is a website so necessary?
-The biggest branding oversights in aviation
The aviation industry is prone to mergers and product changes. We also have a lot of legacy companies that havenât fully embraced todayâs branding standards. How do you make sure your brand reflects the current state of your business?
-The right time to rebrand
In a rapidly evolving world, a brand can get stale really fast. How do you know itâs time for a refresh or a total overhaul?
Guest Bio
Melissa Lucas Thomas is the CEO and Founder of Moxie Global Consulting, LLC. She is a visionary business leader with expertise in the private aviation, luxury hospitality, and retail industries. Over the past two decades, she has worked as an innovator and turnaround expert with emphasis on developing inspiring leaders, managing service culture transformations, creating new revenue streams, and delivering operational excellence. Melissaâs innovative process and technology ideas have been a significant driver behind industry best financial results. To learn more, visit https://moxieglobalconsulting.com/.
About Your Host
Craig Picken is an Executive Recruiter, writer, speaker and ICF Trained Executive Coach. He is focused on recruiting senior-level leadership, sales, and operations executives in the aviation and aerospace industry. His clients include premier OEMs, aircraft operators, leasing/financial organizations, and Maintenance/Repair/Overhaul (MRO) providers and since 2008, he has personally concluded more than 400 executive-level searches in a variety of disciplines. Craig is the ONLY industry executive recruiter who has professionally flown airplanes, sold airplanes, and successfully run a P&L in the aviation industry. His professional career started with a passion for airplanes. After eight yearsâ experience as a decorated Naval Flight Officer â with more than 100 combat missions, 2,000 hours of flight time, and 325 aircraft carrier landings â Craig sought challenges in business aviation, where he spent more than 7 years in sales with both Gulfstream Aircraft and Bombardier Business Aircraft. Craig is also a sought-after industry speaker who has presented at Corporate Jet Investor, International Aviation Womenâs Association, and SOCAL Aviation Association.
For more aerospace industry news & commentary: https://craigpicken.com/insights/. To learn more about Craig Picken and the NorthStar Group, visit https://craigpicken.com/.
Check out this episode on our website, Apple Podcasts, or Spotify, and don't forget to leave a review if you like what you heard. Your review feeds the algorithm so our show reaches more people. Thank you!
-
Commercial Airlines in the United States have achieved an amazing accomplishmentâ 10 years without a major mishap. This is an enviable safety record that is a direct result of professionalism and industry improvements made through the years. Resting on our laurels, however, is not an option.
How do we maintain this stellar record despite massive industry changes?
In this episode, Iâm joined by former VP of Flight Ops for Southwest Airlines, Bob Waltz shares whatâs behind the improvement of safety and how to keep it that way going forward.
How weâre training pilots is better than it was even a couple of years ago.
-Bob Waltz
Three Things Youâll Learn In This Episode
How to set pilots up for safety: With rampant pilot hiring what training gaps needed to be closed?Solving the pilot shortfall: Would it be wise to reduce the 1500 hour rule? Why the human-machine interface is still needed: As aircraft become more complicated, how do we make sure pilots are familiar with the basics?Guest Bio
Bob is the former VP of Flight Ops for Southwest Airlines. At the core of his experience is leadership in the operational and training arenas of aviation, both in the military and the civilian sectors--but his interests are wider than commercial aviation alone. He enjoys helping others see the value of Safety Management Systems and continuous improvement and bringing these concepts to life in their enterprise. Bobâs skill set translates well across other industries and areas of focus, from unmanned systems to space to formal education and educational administration to venture capital start-ups. His background was forged while attending the U.S. Air Force Academy, leading crews flying combat/combat support sorties in the Middle East and the Balkans, serving at the national level as the head of a recruiting team delivering educational opportunities to the widest audience, and guiding a multi-billion dollar OPEX and multi-million dollar CAPEX team of 10,500 folks through the pandemic while completing his Ph.D. in Aerospace Science / Safety Management Systems.
For more information, head to https://www.linkedin.com/in/bob-waltz-1829a51b/.
Learn More About Your Host:
Co-founder and Managing Partner for Northstar Group, Craig is focused on recruiting senior level leadership, sales and operations executives for some of the most prominent companies in the aviation and aerospace industry. Clients include well known aircraft OEMâs, aircraft operators, leasing / financial organizations, and Maintenance / Repair / Overhaul (MRO) providers.
Since 2009 Craig has personally concluded more than 150 executive searches in a variety of disciplines. As the only executive recruiter who has flown airplanes, sold airplanes AND run a business, Craig is uniquely positioned to build deep, lasting relationships with both executives and the boards and stakeholders they serve. This allows him to use a detailed, disciplined process that does more than pair the ideal candidate with the perfect opportunity, and hit the business goals of the companies he serves.
For more aerospace industry news & commentary: https://goo.gl/3piJkw. To learn more about Craig Picken and the NorthStar Group, visit http://northstaresg.com/.
Check out this episode on our Apple Podcasts, or Spotify and don't forget to download the Apple Podcasts app and leave a review if you like what you heard. Your review feeds the algorithm so our show reaches more people. Thank you!
-
Leading an aircraft carrier with a 5,000 person crew is like running an entire city. The flight deck is dangerous, the number of moving parts is countless, the stakes are high. and the magnitude of responsibility is unparalleled.
How do you deal with all this and still manage to be an approachable leader with the respect and loyalty of your crew? Why is delegation THE key to success?
In this episode, Iâm joined by retired Navy captain of the USS Theodore Roosevelt, Brett Crozier. He talks about his incredible career, his philosophy on leadership and what any leader can learn from running an aircraft carrier.
Never overreact. The truth is always in the third report. -Brett Crozier
Three Things Youâll Learn In This Episode
- The curse of the founder: Delegation is key to leadership efficiency, but why do so many leaders struggle to offload certain responsibilities?
- How to be an approachable leader: The temperament of a leader has a huge effect on the culture, how do we keep our emotions in check?
- The right way to process information: We live in a world of unfiltered information and rushes to judgment. How do we manage this as leaders?
For more aerospace industry news & commentary: https://goo.gl/3piJkw. To learn more about Craig Picken and the NorthStar Group, visit http://northstaresg.com/.
Guest Bio
Brett Elliott Crozier is a retired US Navy captain and the author of âSurf When You Can: Lessons in Life, Loyalty, and Leadership from a Maverick Navy Captainâ. He embarked on a thirty-year career in the Navy, flying dozens of combat missions over Iraq and leading at the highest levels of operational command. He served as the commanding officer of a combat F/A-18 strike fighter squadron, the worldâs largest and most advanced communications ship, and ultimately the USS Theodore Roosevelt before retiring from the Navy in 2022.
Learn More About Your Host:
Co-founder and Managing Partner for Northstar Group, Craig is focused on recruiting senior level leadership, sales and operations executives for some of the most prominent companies in the aviation and aerospace industry. Clients include well known aircraft OEMâs, aircraft operators, leasing / financial organizations, and Maintenance / Repair / Overhaul (MRO) providers.
Since 2009 Craig has personally concluded more than 150 executive searches in a variety of disciplines. As the only executive recruiter who has flown airplanes, sold airplanes AND run a business, Craig is uniquely positioned to build deep, lasting relationships with both executives and the boards and stakeholders they serve. This allows him to use a detailed, disciplined process that does more than pair the ideal candidate with the perfect opportunity, and hit the business goals of the companies he serves.
Check out this episode on our Apple Podcasts, or Spotify, and don't forget to download the Apple Podcasts app and leave a review if you like what you heard. Your review feeds the algorithm so our show reaches more people. Thank you!
-
If all youâre known for is what you do, youâve basically rendered yourself uncompetitive. -Ken Schmidt
For more aerospace industry news & commentary: https://goo.gl/3piJkw. To learn more about Craig Picken and the NorthStar Group, visit http://northstaresg.com/.
In a competitive marketplace, nothing kills you faster than trying to brand yourself on your product or service. Thatâs a lesson Harley-Davidson learned the hard way.
At one point, the company was being outpaced by Yamaha, Kawasaki and BMWâŠuntil they decided to position themselves differently. They went from a product-focused business to a thriving lifestyle brand, and that turned into one of the biggest turnaround stories in American history.
If you focus on what you sell, youâll render yourself uncompetitive. If you focus on what people believe and say about you, youâll create a unique brand no one can copy.
Thatâs how a historic company became an iconic brand.
How can we apply Harley-Davidsonâs strategy to our own personal and corporate brands? How do we focus on memorability instead of marketability?
In this episode, Iâm joined by speaker, consultant, former director of communications for Harley-Davidson and author of âMake Some Noise: The Unconventional Road to Dominanceâ, Ken Schmidt. We talk about the secret to strong branding, whatever industry youâre in.
Three Things Youâll Learn In This Episode
The lesson Harley Davidson learned the hard wayIn business, competing on what we do is the death knell of market domination. How do we shift to something that sets us apart? A game of memorability Building a brand is easier said than done, what are 3 major steps we need to take to build a strong personal or corporate brand? Stand out by delighting your customersSo many businesses are commoditized these days and they miss huge opportunities to stand out and gain loyalty. How do we get customers to come back for more?Guest Bio
Ken Schmidt is a premium-fueled speaker, podcast host, author and consultant serving the world's highest- revving businesses (and those stuck in neutral). As the former director of communications for Harley-Davidson Motor Company, he played an active role in one of the most celebrated turnarounds in corporate history â and got paid to ride motorcycles. He is widely known and respected as one of the business worldâs most outspoken, provocative, and entertaining thought leaders on competition, brand management, positioning, reputation management, human behavior, and loyalty, and has delivered more than one thousand keynote speeches to business and education groups around the globe. Kenâs book âMake Some Noise: The Unconventional Road to Dominanceâ teaches how to improve business and personal competitiveness and is shared from his, as always, extraordinarily unexpected point of view. To learn more, head to https://kenspeaks.com/ and buy the book here.
About Your Host
Co-founder and Managing Partner for Northstar Group, Craig is focused on recruiting senior-level leadership, sales, and operations executives for some of the most prominent companies in the aviation and aerospace industry. Clients include well-known aircraft OEMs, aircraft operators, leasing / financial organizations, and Maintenance / Repair / Overhaul (MRO) providers.
Since 2009 Craig has personally concluded more than 150 executive searches in a variety of disciplines. As the only executive recruiter who has flown airplanes, sold airplanes, AND run a business, Craig is uniquely positioned to build deep, lasting relationships with both executives and the boards and stakeholders they serve. This allows him to use a detailed, disciplined process that does more than pair the ideal candidate with the perfect opportunity and hit the business goals of the companies he serves.
Check out this episode on Apple Podcasts, or Spotify, and don't forget to download the Apple Podcasts app and leave a review if you like what you heard. Your review feeds the algorithm so our show reaches more people. Thank you!
-
Trust is really the water that all relationships swim in. When the trust is high, the water is clear and itâs a wonderful experience. When trust isnât there, the waterâs dark and thereâs misery and drudgery. -George Dom
For more aerospace industry news & commentary: https://goo.gl/3piJkw. To learn more about Craig Picken and the NorthStar Group, visit http://northstaresg.com/.
In the high-flying, high stakes world of The Blue Angels - trust is as vital as the air we breathe. In such an extreme workplace, trust canât be selective or conditional. People have to fully and enthusiastically put their lives in the hands of their leaders and each other, and that requires high, unwavering trust at all times.
You might not be leading in such an extreme, life or death workplace, but that doesnât mean you canât learn from them. If we can apply lessons from these environments to our own civilian workplaces, we can push the capabilities of our teams.
From communication to competence, how can military leadership lessons make us better? How do you build a culture of high trust? In this episode, Iâm joined by former Commanding Officer of the Blue Angels and author of âHigh Trust Leadershipâ, George Dom. We talk about how to lead like a Blue Angels commanding officer.
Three Things Youâll Learn In This Episode
Get education from extreme workplacesSome of the best leadership lessons come out of the most extreme environments. What do high-stress, life or death situations teach us about running great organizations?The 5 questions everyone asks of their leaders Whether youâre in a high-stress, high-danger environment or an office, what do leaders need to be focused on? Transmit your message consistently In military and aviation environments, people donât just assume a message was heard. They have protocols to make sure a message was received. How can we implement this in our organizations?Guest Bio
George is an aviation executive, pilot, speaker and former Commanding Officer of the Blue Angels. Today he is the COO of ACI Jet and the author of the upcoming book, âHigh Trust Leadership: How to Build a High-Performance Teamâ. Through inspiring keynotes, engaging workshops, and expert coaching, George shares critical lessons on leadership, team-building, and high performance based on his 26-year Navy career that included aerial combat missions, flight leader of the Blue Angels, and Topgun instructor. Participants learn the skills that transform managers into leaders and groups into cohesive teams -- High-Trust Leadership and Focused Engagement. To learn more go to https://georgedom.com/ and connect with George on LinkedIn.
More About Your Host:
Co-founder and Managing Partner for Northstar Group, Craig is focused on recruiting senior-level leadership, sales, and operations executives for some of the most prominent companies in the aviation and aerospace industry. Clients include well-known aircraft OEMs, aircraft operators, leasing / financial organizations, and Maintenance / Repair / Overhaul (MRO) providers.
Since 2009 Craig has personally concluded more than 150 executive searches in a variety of disciplines. As the only executive recruiter who has flown airplanes, sold airplanes, AND run a business, Craig is uniquely positioned to build deep, lasting relationships with both executives and the boards and stakeholders they serve. This allows him to use a detailed, disciplined process that does more than pair the ideal candidate with the perfect opportunity and hit the business goals of the companies he serves.
Check out this episode on our website, Apple Podcasts, or Spotify, and don't forget to download the Apple Podcasts app and leave a review if you like what you heard. Your review feeds the algorithm so our show reaches more people. Thank you!
-
Everyone wants to have A-players in their teams, but when it comes to recruiting those rockstars, many of us donât even know where to start.
Does recruitment look any different when weâre looking to onboard the best of the best? How do top-tier achievers want to be approached, and what could entice them to work with our organizations, over everyone else?
On the flipside, how can recruits present themselves as the kind of talent companies are willing to go the extra mile to bring into their worlds?
In this episode, executive recruiter and President of MR Fairfax, Robert Houghton and I discuss how to spot (or become!) top talent.
"The ideal recruit is looking towards a goal, not running away from something." -Craig Picken
Three Things Youâll Learn In This Episode
5 things that separate A-players from everyone elseIs there an easy way to spot the ideal hire, from a distance? The non-negotiables A-players are looking forWhy would a rockstar be willing to up and move to another organization? How can we make joining our teams worth their while? How to tell if a rockstar recruit is really interestedAre would-be recruits really interested in joining our teams, or could they be easily persuaded to stay where they are now?Guest Bio-
Robert Houghton is an executive recruiter and the President of MR Fairfax, the #1 recruiter in the Mid-Atlantic region specializing in insurance and financial services. A well-established former CEO of several successful business enterprises, Robert has a unique understanding of executive recruiting in the commercial insurance sector with specialties in employee benefits, property & casualty insurance and risk management.
To find out more, go to
https://mrfairfax.com/
You can also email him with [email protected]
-
In order to build a successful, scalable business that sets us free, we have to first build a really great team.
Our teams and the way they operate dictate the success of our organizations, and most of us know that. However, when it comes to building those teams, most of us just donât know what we donât know.
So, how can we build the kinds of teams that allow us to create the businesses of our dreams?
In this episode, author, speaker and serial entrepreneur, Carl Gould reveals the 7 stages of growing a great business, and the 2 stages guaranteed to help you assemble an unstoppable team.
"The people who got here are not necessarily the people whoâll get you there, and thatâs okay." -Craig Picken
Three Things Youâll Learn In This Episode
-One thing we tend to forget when building teams
Could promoting our best players actually do more harm than good to our organizations?
-The key to attracting top talent
Are we missing out on a crucial factor when trying to recruit the best players in the game?
-Why turnover isnât always a bad thing
No one likes the thought of losing employees, but could high turnover actually be the best thing for our businesses?
Guest Bio-
Carl Gould is a best-selling author, sought after speaker and the serial entrepreneur behind three multi-million-dollar businesses The founder of 7 Stages Advisors, over the past two decades, Carl has worked with more than 7000 Business Coaches and mentored the launch of over 5000 businesses. Thanks to his expertise, Carl has been featured by a number of top-tier publications including, among others, Wall Street Journal and Forbes. Carlâs forthcoming book, The Obnoxious Offer will hit shelves in Fall 2022.
To find out more, go to:
https://carlgould.com/
https://carl360.com/
Learn More About Your Host:
Co-founder and Managing Partner for Northstar Group, Craig is focused on recruiting senior level leadership, sales and operations executives for some of the most prominent companies in the aviation and aerospace industry. Clients include well known aircraft OEMâs, aircraft operators, leasing / financial organizations, and Maintenance / Repair / Overhaul (MRO) providers.
Since 2009 Craig has personally concluded more than 150 executive searches in a variety of disciplines. As the only executive recruiter who has flown airplanes, sold airplanes AND run a business, Craig is uniquely positioned to build deep, lasting relationships with both executives and the boards and stakeholders they serve. This allows him to use a detailed, disciplined process that does more than pair the ideal candidate with the perfect opportunity, and hit the business goals of the companies he serves.
-
Disruptions, crises, and unexpected challenges are inevitable in business. While we may not be able to prevent a crisis, we can control whether it escalates into a full-blown disaster.
The difference between a "disruption" and a "disaster" is more than just semantics. A disruption is a minor hiccup, but without strategic anticipation and planning, it can become catastrophic. The problem with many organizations is that they invest in impressive disaster management plans but fail to implement them effectively.
By making a few key mindset shifts, we can reverse a disaster and even turn it into a strategic advantage.
Why should we view disasters differently? How can we use them to improve our operations?
In this episode, Iâm joined by Patrick Hardy, a speaker, trainer, author, and disaster reversal expert. We discuss how to plan for disasters and run a resilient business, regardless of economic conditions.
An earthquake is just the ground shaking. A hurricane is just a severe windstorm. A tsunami is ultimately a big wave of water. It doesnât become a disaster unless you let it become one. -Patrick Hardy
Three Things Youâll Learn In This Episode
-Ready, react, respond, recover and reverse
Disruptions are inevitable. Is part of changing the culture of disaster management convincing people to anticipate it?
-Reactivity vs. resilience
How do we run organizations that can bounce back and improve after a crisis instead of organizations that crumble easily?
-The danger of a single point of failure
A disaster isnât actually about whatâs happening or the size of the disruption. Itâs a matter of dependency. What makes organizations more disaster prone?
-
Disruptions, crises, and unexpected challenges are inevitable in business. While we may not be able to prevent a crisis, we can control whether it escalates into a full-blown disaster.
The difference between a "disruption" and a "disaster" is more than just semantics. A disruption is a minor hiccup, but without strategic anticipation and planning, it can become catastrophic. The problem with many organizations is that they invest in impressive disaster management plans but fail to implement them effectively.
By making a few key mindset shifts, we can reverse a disaster and even turn it into a strategic advantage.
Why should we view disasters differently? How can we use them to improve our operations?
In this episode, Iâm joined by Patrick Hardy, a speaker, trainer, author, and disaster reversal expert. We discuss how to plan for disasters and run a resilient business, regardless of economic conditions.
Success is just a function of treating our customers well, keeping our expenses tight and edging into things that make sense. -Mike Winston
Three Things Youâll Learn In This Episode
- A fascinating origin story
How did a finance guy find his way into the world of charter aviation?
- How AI can impact aviation
You always need to have a human element for charter booking because it involves safety and a lot of money. Is there a way AI can be brought in to optimize the human aspect?
- The truth about charter operations
One of the biggest challenges in the charter business is that a clientâs aircraft preference never changes. How do operators know what to buy?
Guest Bio
Mike Winston, CFA is the Executive Chairman of Jet.AI Inc. He began his career in 1999 with Credit Suisse First Boston Corporation and later worked as a portfolio manager at Millennium Partners LP where for five years he and a colleague managed a $1 billion merger arbitrage and event driven capital allocation. In 2012, he formed the Sutton View Group of companies, an alternative asset management platform where he advised one of the largest academic endowments in the world. He co-led a successful activist litigation against the board of Dole Foods in its management led buyout and obtained a 35% increase in total consideration on behalf of all stockholders. Institutional Investor Magazine has recognized Mr. Winston for professional excellence; he has been quoted in the Wall Street Journal and has appeared on CNBC. Mr. Winston received an MBA in Finance and Real Estate from Columbia Business School in 2005, and a BA in Economics from Cornell University in 1999. While at Cornell he studied for a year at the London School of Economics and at age 18 won a $1 million prize from IBM for his first startup company. Mr. Winston is a CFA Charterholder, and a member of the Economic Club of New York.
Connect with Mike on LinkedIn and send an email to [email protected].
Learn More About Your Host:
Co-founder and Managing Partner for Northstar Group, Craig is focused on recruiting senior-level leadership, sales, and operations executives for some of the most prominent companies in the aviation and aerospace industry. Clients include well-known aircraft OEMs, aircraft operators, leasing / financial organizations, and Maintenance / Repair / Overhaul (MRO) providers.
Since 2009 Craig has personally concluded more than 150 executive searches in a variety of disciplines. As the only executive recruiter who has flown airplanes, sold airplanes, AND run a business, Craig is uniquely positioned to build deep, lasting relationships with both executives and the boards and stakeholders they serve. This allows him to use a detailed, disciplined process that does more than pair the ideal candidate with the perfect opportunity and hit the business goals of the companies he serves.
-
We donât like to talk about it often, but when it comes to safety, business aviation doesn't have the perfect record. Anytime an accident happens, it affects the entire industry. A rising tide of safety keeps more planes in the air and makes the whole industry better.
Raising the bar of safety can feel like a nebulous concept, but itâs a necessary conversation. While itâs hard to pinpoint the areas that need to be addressed, we can start by building the right enforcement mechanisms and environments to correct problems.
How do we raise the safety standard without creating a finger-pointing or witch-hunting environment? What is the Air Charter Safety Foundation doing to bring safety to the entire niche?
In this episode, Iâm joined by Sky Strategy columnist, co-chair of the Board of Governors at the Air Charter Safety Foundation and CEO of FlyVizor, Jessie Naor. She talks about how she built GrandView Aviation, and how to make business aviation safer.
We donât like to talk about it often, but we donât have a perfect record. If anyone has an accident, it affects all of us. -Jessie Naor
Three Things Youâll Learn In This Episode
-Cutting down on acts of stupidity
Illegal charters are one of the biggest causes of business aviation accidents. How do we create the right enforcement mechanisms and environments to correct the issues?
-Growth makes things easier
How did GrandView Aviation go from a small company to 20 aircraft and 100 pilots? How did management approach growth and ultimately selling the business?
-Progress not punishment
We continue to have accidents in business aviation, and it should be a concern to all of us. How do we create a reporting culture that doesnât feel like finger-pointing?
Guest Bio
Jessie Naor is the author of the Sky Strategy column in Aviation Week's BCA, Co-Chair of the Board of Governors at the Air Charter Safety Foundation and CEO of FlyVizor, an aviation M&A advisory and business consulting firm. She is a former founder and president of GrandView Aviation. Jessie has years of C-level experience in sales, marketing, HR, finance, data technologies and flight operations management. She is heavily engaged in industry advocacy, having served on multiple FAA Rulemaking committees and trade board groups. She was awarded a Top 40 Under 40 by the National Business Aviation Association and has spoken at events such as Women in Aviation, Corporate Jet Investor, amongst others. Connect with Jessie on LinkedIn.
Learn More About Your Host
Co-founder and Managing Partner for Northstar Group, Craig is focused on recruiting senior-level leadership, sales, and operations executives for some of the most prominent companies in the aviation and aerospace industry. Clients include well-known aircraft OEMs, aircraft operators, leasing / financial organizations, and Maintenance / Repair / Overhaul (MRO) providers.
Since 2009 Craig has personally concluded more than 150 executive searches in a variety of disciplines. As the only executive recruiter who has flown airplanes, sold airplanes, AND run a business, Craig is uniquely positioned to build deep, lasting relationships with both executives and the boards and stakeholders they serve. This allows him to use a detailed, disciplined process that does more than pair the ideal candidate with the perfect opportunity and hit the business goals of the companies he serves.
-
Operating airplanes is a TOUGH business! Complicated machines, delicate financing structures, ever changing asset values, and other complexities that can tank even the best run operations. This is why itâs impossible to democratize business aviation.
Because owning a business jet company is sexy, it is easy to become overly emotional and focus on what makes you look good. But, it is a numbers business and operators who donât stay disciplined will often find themselves in a lot of trouble. The secret according to AirXâs founder, John Matthews? Take let data drive your decisions.
How do you set a charter business up for success?
What are some of the mistakes jet operators are making? In this episode, John talks about the journey the company has taken, from their fascinating beginnings, to picking routes and building a very unique fleet and what it takes to survive and thrive in a tough business.
I became extremely analytical when I started to lose money, and thatâs how we started making money. -John Matthews
Three Things Youâll Learn In This Episode
-Why AirX stopped flying to America
The routes you fly are critical to your success in the charter business. What are the differences between the American and European marketplaces?
-The only way to survive and thrive
The asset market is going to soften and weâve seen a sharp rise in the charter jet global inventory. What approach does AirX take to expanding their fleet? What are some of the creative aircraft theyâve assembled?
-Data-driven decisions only
In an industry like charters, itâs really easy to make decisions based on emotion. Why is it critical to be analytical instead?
Guest Bio
John Matthews is the Chairman of AirX. Beginning at the age of 17, John Matthews managed the operations of a 20-plane flying school. At the age of 18, He started a twin piston engine aircraft charter business for the executive charter market. John also earned a contract with Caledonian Airways to manage 13 Tri-Stars and two DC10s around the world, providing all technical ground support and flying critical spare parts to Caledonian in AOG circumstances. By the age of 19, John had advanced his career by starting his own operation with 10-seater twin engine aircraft. Healix, the UK's largest repatriation company, also hired him to fly medical relief flights. AirX was founded because a family-run business purchased the wrong assets during the boom. John took over operations, and within months of his leadership, the company was brought back from the brink of bankruptcy, building a new tier in Malta as the company's new HQ, which began in 2010 since then the annual turnover increased from âŹ8 million to âŹ150 million, with zero EBITDA to âŹ25 million and cash generation of roughly âŹ8 million in 2023, a record year. AirX has grown its clientele to include over 250 notable international celebrities, the majority of whom are return customers, including royal families, politicians, government flights, music tours, sports teams, and mission flights. For more information, go to https://www.airx.aero/.
Learn More About Your Host:
Co-founder and Managing Partner for Northstar Group, Craig is focused on recruiting senior-level leadership, sales, and operations executives for some of the most prominent companies in the aviation and aerospace industry. Clients include well-known aircraft OEMs, aircraft operators, leasing / financial organizations, and Maintenance / Repair / Overhaul (MRO) providers.
Since 2009 Craig has personally concluded more than 150 executive searches in a variety of disciplines. As the only executive recruiter who has flown airplanes, sold airplanes, AND run a business, Craig is uniquely positioned to build deep, lasting relationships with both executives and the boards and stakeholders they serve. This allows him to use a detailed, disciplined process that does more than pair the ideal candidate with the perfect opportunity and hit the business goals of the companies he serves.
-
Repositioning a 60-year-old distribution company - during COVID no less - is a Herculean effort. Considering that VSE Corporationâs market cap has gone from $300 million to $1.2 billion since 2019, the mission has been successful.
For the CEO tasked with this turnaround, thereâs one key ingredient to this success - present leadership. In this post-COVID era of remote work, itâs easy for companies to take an out-of-sight, out-of-mind approach, but VSE does the opposite. Prioritizing the right things, identifying the underutilized gems, and putting effort into the foundation pays off.
How do you turn a 60-year-old company into a market leader? How is VSE Corporation approaching M&A? In this episode, CEO John Cuomo talks about his journey since taking over the company, why his mindset is one of âwriting a new volume of a bookâ, what sets them apart, and the secret to their success. By the way⊠heâs also one of the most sought-after CEOâs in the industry!
The presence of a leader is important, even if itâs limited. I think it sends a big message, you connect in different ways and you get something different out of the businessâ story. -John Cuomo
Three Things Youâll Learn In This Episode
-1+1 is greater than 2
When conducting M&A many companies are mainly focused on buying a great asset. Why does the VSE Corporation start with strategy and culture?
-The whole power of presence
Itâs easy to have a disconnect between the companyâs leadership strategy and the people working the floor. How does VSE make sure the whole company is moving together in the right direction?
-The easiest journeys donât give you the best reward
Transforming a company is no easy feat. Why does John Cuomo liken it to tearing a house down to the studs, rebuilding it, and ending up with the best home on the block?
Guest Bio
John Cuomo is the President and CEO of VSE Corporation. Appointed Chief Executive Officer in 2019, he brings 21 years of experience in distribution and the aftermarket services industry. John previously served as Vice President and General Manager of Boeing Distribution Services Inc. Prior to Boeing's 2018 acquisition of the Aerospace Solutions Group of KLX Inc., John served as its President and General Manager (since 2014). From 2000 to 2014, John served in multiple roles and functions at B/E Aerospace (parent company of KLX, Inc. until 2014), including Vice President & General Manager and Senior Vice President, Global Sales, Marketing & Business Development. Prior to joining B/E Aerospace, John served as an attorney at a large multinational law firm practicing commercial law, mergers and acquisitions and litigation. Connect with John on LinkedIn.
Learn More About Your Host:
Co-founder and Managing Partner for Northstar Group, Craig is focused on recruiting senior-level leadership, sales, and operations executives for some of the most prominent companies in the aviation and aerospace industry. Clients include well-known aircraft OEMs, aircraft operators, leasing / financial organizations, and Maintenance / Repair / Overhaul (MRO) providers.
Since 2009 Craig has personally concluded more than 150 executive searches in a variety of disciplines. As the only executive recruiter who has flown airplanes, sold airplanes, AND run a business, Craig is uniquely positioned to build deep, lasting relationships with both executives and the boards and stakeholders they serve. This allows him to use a detailed, disciplined process that does more than pair the ideal candidate with the perfect opportunity and hit the business goals of the companies he serves.
-
What happens when the aviation industry faces the gargantuan task of catching up to a constrained supply chain? The opportunity shifts. Everyone has accepted the reality that manufacturing is highly limited and that planes have to fly longer, so the aftermarket is white hot.
If you own IP and youâre driving the aftermarket, youâll be fine for a while, but is this opportunity being felt across the industry or just limited to this corner?
The truth is there are different things occurring in different sectors. Many sectors are leaving la la land and heading back to normalcy which makes for some interesting developments. Other sectors are in dire need of innovation. What are the biggest areas of concern and opportunity? In this episode, Founder and President of Alderman & Company, Bill Alderman returns for a quarterly aviation check-in. We talk about the commercial supply chain, the aftermarket, defense and business jets.
There is a lack of capacity throughout our entire industry of aerospace and the after market is white hot. -Craig Picken
Three Things Youâll Learn In This Episode
-Never bet against American innovation
Russiaâs tech is stale, but the real concern is China. What should this country be doing to shore up our defense industrial base and whatâs at stake if we donât?
-Biz jetsâŠweâre leaving la-la land
All things related to business jet aviation did really well in the pandemic. Why is the sector continuing to cool off now?
-The white hot aftermarket
There is light at the end of the supply chain tunnel, but itâs a long, long tunnel. How is this going to affect the aftermarket?
Guest Bio
William âBillâ Alderman is the Founder and President of Alderman & Company which are aerospace and defense M&A bankers. Bill has always had a passion for aviation and is both a commercial pilot and aircraft owner. Today, he uses his expertise, coupled with his interests to represent Middle Market Sellers in the Aerospace and Defense industry.
To find out more, go to:https://aldermanco.com/
Learn More About Your Host:
Co-founder and Managing Partner for Northstar Group, Craig is focused on recruiting senior-level leadership, sales, and operations executives for some of the most prominent companies in the aviation and aerospace industry. Clients include well-known aircraft OEMs, aircraft operators, leasing / financial organizations, and Maintenance / Repair / Overhaul (MRO) providers.
Since 2009 Craig has personally concluded more than 150 executive searches in a variety of disciplines. As the only executive recruiter who has flown airplanes, sold airplanes, AND run a business, Craig is uniquely positioned to build deep, lasting relationships with both executives and the boards and stakeholders they serve. This allows him to use a detailed, disciplined process that does more than pair the ideal candidate with the perfect opportunity and hit the business goals of the companies he serves.
-
The most conflict-ridden, unproductive and ineffective organizations have one thing in common - a severe lack of honesty. Getting the unsaid said is critical - itâs common sense, but itâs certainly not easy.
Very often, people have valuable thoughts about the organization, but they are afraid to bring them up. Whether itâs issues or ideas, allowing people to share honestly makes our teams more effective.
If youâre a leader and youâre constantly getting blindsided by things you should have known, youâve created a dishonest organization without even knowing it.
How do leaders inadvertently keep their employees from being open with them? How do we create the conditions for honesty? When weâre trying to identify the problem, how can we tell the difference between the facts and our imagination? In this episode, consultant, speaker, and author of Unconditional Power, Steve Gaffney returns. We talk about what erodes honesty in teams and how to rectify it.
Itâs hard to get people to speak up and if you create any conditions for them not to speak up, that becomes a reason for them not to. -Steven Gaffney
Things Youâll Learn In This Episode
-Common sense isnât all that common
There are a lot of leadership principles and best practices that are obvious, why do people struggle to do them?
-Individual accountability vs. all-in collective accountability
People often cite the boss as the reason they canât do something. How do we get them to start holding each other accountable instead?
-Donât imagine, notice
When it comes to resolving issues and conflict, people often create solutions without looking at the root cause. What steps can we shift to get to the core of the matter?
-Repeat, repeat, repeat
The most successful organizations codify their culture. As leaders, how do we bake in our vision for the business?
Guest Bio
Steven Gaffney is a consultant, speaker, CEO of the Steven Gaffney Company, and author of Unconditional Power. He is the leading expert on creating Consistently High Achieving Organizations (CHAO)âą including high-achieving teams, honest communication, and change leadership. With almost 30 years of experience, Steven has become the go-to person and trusted advisor for countless top leaders and executive teams from Fortune 500 companies and associations, as well as the U.S. government and military. He is also a highly regarded author and sought-after speaker.
To get Steveâs free resources, go to https://justbehonest.com/ and mention this podcast in your contact.
Learn More About Your Host:
Co-founder and Managing Partner for Northstar Group, Craig is focused on recruiting senior-level leadership, sales, and operations executives for some of the most prominent companies in the aviation and aerospace industry. Clients include well-known aircraft OEMs, aircraft operators, leasing / financial organizations, and Maintenance / Repair / Overhaul (MRO) providers.
Since 2009 Craig has personally concluded more than 150 executive searches in a variety of disciplines. As the only executive recruiter who has flown airplanes, sold airplanes, AND run a business, Craig is uniquely positioned to build deep, lasting relationships with both executives and the boards and stakeholders they serve. This allows him to use a detailed, disciplined process that does more than pair the ideal candidate with the perfect opportunity and hit the business goals of the companies he serves.
-
Running a fast-moving parts-trading business with 200 employees. Maintaining a hawk-like focus on demand, every line item and deal that crosses your desk. Capturing every last dollar of value across the supply chain.
These arenât easy things to do simultaneously but thatâs what it takes to succeed.
David Chaimowitz, CEO of Setna iO has achieved this and more in just 7 years and his company is not showing any signs of slowing down.
He also feels his company is perfectly positioned to continue on this upward trajectory as many industry experts believe that the season of supply chain woes is almost over. David certainly begs to differ.
The global fleet has a long term supply shortage and the industry will be feeling the pain for decades to come as Boeing and Airbus struggle to increase production to meet demand.
How did Setna iOâs journey begin and how have they set themselves up for success? Why will it be hard for the supply chain shortage to resolve in a few years? In this episode, weâre joined by the founder and CEO of Setna iO, David Chaimovitz. He talks about what itâs like running a fast-moving, highly-caffeinated parts-trading business and where the opportunity is right now.
I'm confident that there will be an aircraft shortage 15 years from today because of the issues that started 5 years ago. If we can go out and buy aircraft, that will work out pretty well for us. -David Chaimovitz
Things Youâll Learn In This Episode
-Donât let inventory nuke your business
Covid revealed a lot of the weaknesses of businesses in the industry. How is Setna iO structured to prevent catastrophe?
-What it takes to thrive in the parts-trading game
Setna iO might be a business that specializes in selling parts, but pattern recognition and opportunity-spotting are more important than being good at sales.
-A 20-year crisis
Many people believe that the industryâs supply chain issues will soon be a thing of the past. Could the shortage of aircraft actually be a problem weâll feel for decades?
-Growth with guardrails
How does Setna iO maintain discipline in a fast-moving, rapidly-changing and often chaotic market?
Guest Bio
David Chaimovitz is the founder & CEO of Setna iO, one of the world's largest and fastest-growing commercial aviation component suppliers, specializing in investing in inventory via asset acquisitions. Setna iO offers a comprehensive range of products for the commercial, regional, and business jet market, from engines and avionics to emergency equipment and landing gear. With over seven years of experience in this role, David understands the nuanced details of the airframe and engine component market, MRO business, and aviation component supply chain. His mission is to provide global airlines with cost-effective and reliable solutions for their aircraft aftermarket needs. Go to https://setnaio.com/ and connect with David on LinkedIn.
Learn More About Your Host:
Co-founder and Managing Partner for Northstar Group, Craig is focused on recruiting senior-level leadership, sales, and operations executives for some of the most prominent companies in the aviation and aerospace industry. Clients include well-known aircraft OEMs, aircraft operators, leasing / financial organizations, and Maintenance / Repair / Overhaul (MRO) providers.
Since 2009 Craig has personally concluded more than 150 executive searches in a variety of disciplines. As the only executive recruiter who has flown airplanes, sold airplanes, AND run a business, Craig is uniquely positioned to build deep, lasting relationships with both executives and the boards and stakeholders they serve. This allows him to use a detailed, disciplined process that does more than pair the ideal candidate with the perfect opportunity and hit the business goals of the companies he serves.
-
Todayâs workforce is teeming with high-level talent possessing a wealth of wisdom and decades of experience. Do leaders have the confidence and maturity to hire them?
Young managers can learn a lot from the veteran players but only if theyâre able to see past the age gap and manage the relationship maturely.
What are some of the insecurities leaders have around recruiting people with more experience, and how are they mitigated?
In this episode, Matt Johnson joins me to discuss why people with more experience and wisdom are such great recruits and the right way to do it.
"Young managers fear that they need to have all the answers, but you donât have to know everything. You just need to know how you get there through the perspective, wisdom, and experience of others." -Craig Picken
Three Things Youâll Learn In This Episode
-Why we have to approach hiring differently
The things that matter to employees today are vastly different from what mattered in the past. How do executives make sure their offering measures up to what they want?
-The biggest barrier to hiring confidently
Young managers are afraid of not having the answers and this holds them back from dipping into an amazing talent pool. How can you overcome this fear?
-How to establish a strong working relationship
Why is open dialogue such an important part of getting on the same page with a recruit, and setting the tone for a harmonious working relationship?
Learn More About Your Host:
Co-founder and Managing Partner for Northstar Group, Craig is focused on recruiting senior-level leadership, sales, and operations executives for some of the most prominent companies in the aviation and aerospace industry. Clients include well-known aircraft OEMs, aircraft operators, leasing / financial organizations, and Maintenance / Repair / Overhaul (MRO) providers.
Since 2009 Craig has personally concluded more than 150 executive searches in a variety of disciplines. As the only executive recruiter who has flown airplanes, sold airplanes, AND run a business, Craig is uniquely positioned to build deep, lasting relationships with both executives and the boards and stakeholders they serve. This allows him to use a detailed, disciplined process that does more than pair the ideal candidate with the perfect opportunity and hit the business goals of the companies he serves.
-
In many organizations, the gap between the generations is a point of conflict and friction but it doesnât have to be.
Sure, millennials/Gen-Z see work differently to their older coworkers and superiors, but thereâs a lot of value in the perspectives each generation have, and that can make for a more resilient organization.
How do we facilitate better communication and collaboration between the generations?
In this episode, executive and transition coach and change strategist, Julie Noonan talks about how leaders can eliminate generational friction and create harmony in the workforce.
Get rid of as many stereotypes as possible because as soon as you put someone in a box, youâve limited their ability to shine, and thatâs for anyone across the board regardless of generation. -Julie Noonan
Three Things Youâll Learn In This Episode
-How the conversation around work changed
Did covid actually accelerate generational harmony in the workplace?
-Why younger employees arenât interested in the corner office or titles
How has the younger generation redefined what the pinnacle of success looks like?
-The power of two-way mentorship
There are tremendous opportunities for both generations to learn from each other, how can companies facilitate it?
Guest Bio
Julie is an executive and transition coach, change strategist and speaker helping mid- to late-career executive leaders successfully ride the waves of change. Julie has years of executive-level experience in consulting in both the private and public sectors, as well as years of experience as a corporate employee. She has spent her career coaching leaders at all levels in many industries and through many challenges â both professional and personal.
For more information, head to https://www.jnoonanconsulting.com/ and connect with her on LinkedIn.
Learn More About Your Host:
Co-founder and Managing Partner for Northstar Group, Craig is focused on recruiting senior level leadership, sales and operations executives for some of the most prominent companies in the aviation and aerospace industry. Clients include well known aircraft OEMâs, aircraft operators, leasing / financial organizations, and Maintenance / Repair / Overhaul (MRO) providers.
Since 2009 Craig has personally concluded more than 150 executive searches in a variety of disciplines. As the only executive recruiter who has flown airplanes, sold airplanes AND run a business, Craig is uniquely positioned to build deep, lasting relationships with both executives and the boards and stakeholders they serve. This allows him to use a detailed, disciplined process that does more than pair the ideal candidate with the perfect opportunity, and hit the business goals of the companies he serves.
-
Before the pandemic much of the industry ran on cruise control. Unfortunately, covid and the post-covid era exposed a lot of underlying weaknesses. From raw materials shortages to labor and production, everyone has a headache and thereâs not enough aspirin to go around.
Before new solutions can be found the real challenge is stabilizing the processes we have now while also trying to make this an industry people will clamor to work in.
Although there is a flurry of activity within MRO, production and manufacturing need to bounce back and meet demand and the teething problems of LEAP and GTF engines need to be ironed out.
What are some of the moves that can be made to turnaround manufacturing? Is it high time for a new commercial airline program? What makes the jet engine business so great?
In this episode, Senior Aerospace/Defense and Airline analyst at Bloomberg Research, George Ferguson discusses whatâs on the horizon for aviation, the challenges the industry is facing and possible profitable solutions.
Weâre an aerospace nation. Itâs a core industry we want to protect here in the US. -George Ferguson
Three Things Youâll Learn In This Episode
-Protecting American aerospace
Aviation used to be an industry that attracted young talent, but nowâŠnot so much. How do we fix this urgent talent drain?
-The beauty of the engine business
Weâve pushed jet engine technology as far as it can be pushed. What comes next?
-Not all bad news for Boeing
Is Boeing closer to being investable again than we think? Should they just consider building a new airplane entirely?
Guest Bio
George Ferguson is a Senior Aerospace/Defense and Airline analyst and Research team leader at Bloomberg Intelligence, Bloomberg's research group. Heâs experienced in portfolio management, equity and debt analysis. George is also a U.S. Army veteran, and served as an intelligence officer (S2) in Iraq during 2003. His education includes a B.A. in Economics from Penn State University, an MBA with a finance concentration from Rutgers Graduate School of Management. Heâs also a CFA charterholder and a Private Pilot. Connect with him on LinkedIn.
Learn More About Your Host:
Co-founder and Managing Partner for Northstar Group, Craig is focused on recruiting senior-level leadership, sales, and operations executives for some of the most prominent companies in the aviation and aerospace industry. Clients include well-known aircraft OEMs, aircraft operators, leasing / financial organizations, and Maintenance / Repair / Overhaul (MRO) providers.
Since 2009 Craig has personally concluded more than 150 executive searches in a variety of disciplines. As the only executive recruiter who has flown airplanes, sold airplanes, AND run a business, Craig is uniquely positioned to build deep, lasting relationships with both executives and the boards and stakeholders they serve. This allows him to use a detailed, disciplined process that does more than pair the ideal candidate with the perfect opportunity and hit the business goals of the companies he serves.
-
The skilled American worker has the resourcefulness to create better opportunities for themselves, so theyâre not going to tolerate being treated poorly, even if theyâre employed by a mega industry player.
What will it take for business owners to stand out to recruits at a time when the balance of power is rapidly shifting in favor of employees? What can we do to not only attract, but retain their interest, so theyâre less likely to look elsewhere?
In this episode, weâre discussing how to become (and stay!) the top choice for top talent.
"If you come into negotiations from a power position, youâll win every time." -Craig Picken
Three Things Youâll Learn In This Episode
-The key to keeping our teams enthusiastic
Itâs one thing to recruit talent, but how do we keep them interested and invested?
-How to build high-performing teams on a budget
Realistically, top talent are not likely to accept below-market compensation, so what does that mean for companies with smaller budgets? Is there a way to onboard talent without forking out a ton of cash?
-One thing to be mindful of when recruiting
If weâre continually going outside our organizations to find talent, rather than developing skills internally, what message are we sending to our employees?
Learn More About Your Host:
Co-founder and Managing Partner for Northstar Group, Craig is focused on recruiting senior level leadership, sales and operations executives for some of the most prominent companies in the aviation and aerospace industry. Clients include well known aircraft OEMâs, aircraft operators, leasing / financial organizations, and Maintenance / Repair / Overhaul (MRO) providers.
Since 2009 Craig has personally concluded more than 150 executive searches in a variety of disciplines. As the only executive recruiter who has flown airplanes, sold airplanes AND run a business, Craig is uniquely positioned to build deep, lasting relationships with both executives and the boards and stakeholders they serve. This allows him to use a detailed, disciplined process that does more than pair the ideal candidate with the perfect opportunity, and hit the business goals of the companies he serves.
-
What separates the companies knocking it out of the ballpark and those running in place? Oftentimes itâs just simple communication.
Lack of achievement isnât just a function of what people do, itâs whatâs they donât sayâŠ. But really need to!
The best leaders recognize the need for open communication and prioritize it, even when itâs uncomfortable.
Why is the distinction between a high-performance and high-achievement so important in our organizations? How do we become unconditionally powerful? How do we remove static from our communication lines?
In this episode, Iâm joined by consultant, speaker, and author of Unconditional Power, Steven Gaffney. We talk about the secret to successful organizations and how to empower the people who work in them.
The word high-performing is old-hat and it often doesnât speak to the times. I say high-achieving. -Craig Picken
Three Things Youâll Learn In This Episode
-Performance isnât the problem, achieving is
Weâre not paid to work hard, weâre paid to achieve results.
-Team first, position second
How do we pivot from focusing on our own role to thinking of the needs of the whole organization?
-Traits of the powerful
How do we go from powerless to unconditionally powerful?
Guest Bio
Steven Gaffney is a consultant, speaker, CEO of the Steven Gaffney Company, and author of Unconditional Power. He is the leading expert on creating Consistently High Achieving Organizations (CHAO)âą including high-achieving teams, honest communication, and change leadership. With almost 30 years of experience, Steven has become the go-to person and trusted advisor for countless top leaders and executive teams from Fortune 500 companies and associations, as well as the U.S. government and military. He is also a highly regarded author and sought-after speaker.
To get Steveâs free resources and 12 Essential Elements of a Consistently High-Achieving Team and The Fish Isnât Sick the Waterâs Dirty, go to https://justbehonest.com/ and mention this podcast in your contact.
Learn More About Your Host:
Co-founder and Managing Partner for Northstar Group, Craig is focused on recruiting senior-level leadership, sales, and operations executives for some of the most prominent companies in the aviation and aerospace industry. Clients include well-known aircraft OEMs, aircraft operators, leasing / financial organizations, and Maintenance / Repair / Overhaul (MRO) providers.
Since 2009 Craig has personally concluded more than 150 executive searches in a variety of disciplines. As the only executive recruiter who has flown airplanes, sold airplanes, AND run a business, Craig is uniquely positioned to build deep, lasting relationships with both executives and the boards and stakeholders they serve. This allows him to use a detailed, disciplined process that does more than pair the ideal candidate with the perfect opportunity and hit the business goals of the companies he serves.
- Laat meer zien
