Today’s 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 they’re 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 don’t 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 You’ll 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 doesn’t have to be.   Sure, millennials/Gen-Z see work differently to their older coworkers and superiors, but there’s 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, you’ve limited their ability to shine, and that’s for anyone across the board regardless of generation. -Julie Noonan   Three Things You’ll Learn In This Episode    -How the conversation around work changed Did covid actually accelerate generational harmony in the workplace? -Why younger employees aren’t 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 – 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 OEM’s, 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 there’s 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 what’s on the horizon for aviation, the challenges the industry is facing and possible profitable solutions.   We’re an aerospace nation. It’s a core industry we want to protect here in the US. -George Ferguson   Three Things You’ll Learn In This Episode    -Protecting American aerospace  Aviation used to be an industry that attracted young talent, but now…not so much. How do we fix this urgent talent drain?   -The beauty of the engine business  We’ve 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. He’s 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. He’s 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 they’re not going to tolerate being treated poorly, even if they’re 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 they’re less likely to look elsewhere?   In this episode, we’re discussing how to become (and stay!) the top choice for top talent.   "If you come into negotiations from a power position, you’ll win every time." -Craig Picken   Three Things You’ll Learn In This Episode    -The key to keeping our teams enthusiastic It’s 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 we’re 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 OEM’s, 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 it’s just simple communication.   Lack of achievement isn’t just a function of what people do, it’s what’s they don’t say…. But really need to!   The best leaders recognize the need for open communication and prioritize it, even when it’s 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, I’m 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 doesn’t speak to the times. I say high-achieving. -Craig Picken   Three Things You’ll Learn In This Episode    -Performance isn’t the problem, achieving is We’re not paid to work hard, we’re 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)™ 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 Steve’s free resources and 12 Essential Elements of a Consistently High-Achieving Team and The Fish Isn’t Sick the Water’s 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.

During the pandemic, aviation was in a world of hurt and it took a long time to recover. Now that we’re out of that, everyone is making money…except Boeing and anyone tied to them.   If you’re a well-run company, executing at a high level, you’re benefiting from the industry bounce back. If you’re programmatically connected to Boeing - well, it’s complicated and will be for a while.   Is there any silver lining for Boeing, or can we expect trouble for the next decade? Are interest rates affecting aviation, or is the labor shortage still the most pressing concern? In this episode, M&A banker, Bill Alderman returns to share the state of the industry and it’s so bifurcated.   If you are programmatically tied to Boeing, this is a difficult time for you, and it’s got nothing to do with the industry. It’s that your customer has actual operating problems and that flows right down onto you. -Bill Alderman   Three Things You’ll Learn In This Episode  -The real problem  Everyone’s talking about the impact of interest rates, but is the labor shortage the real issue?    -Can Boeing get its act together Why is Boeing having such a hard time while everyone else in the industry is experiencing incredible profitability?    -Boeing’s fate The market’s lost confidence in Boeing, are they due for an activist investor or total collapse?      Guest Bio   William ‘Bill’ Alderman is the Founder and President of Alderman & Company who 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/    You can also call or text him on:  914.414.4070   Or email him at:  wa@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.

They are considered “too small”! That is, until there’s an issue with a critical component they supply. Then they become the backbone of the industry. Small suppliers play a big role in aerospace.   With the addition of some “scale,” TLC, and robust business systems, there is also ample opportunity for growth. And this is exact what Scott Ashton is doing with Aerox.   From “big company” to pursuing his entrepreneurial dream Scott is building something great and he’s never looking back.   What’s the difference between working for big corporations and being the captain of a tugboat? What are some of the challenges that come with acquiring smaller suppliers?   In this episode, Scott talks about growing a small company, his latest acquisitions, and what he’s learned on his entrepreneurial journey.   You can have an impact on a company in a way that you can’t have in a much bigger organization. It’s very satisfying. -Scott Ashton   Three Things You’ll Learn In This Episode    -Building the playbook from scratch What’s the biggest difference between being an entrepreneur and an employee at a large company?   -The ultimate entrepreneurial opportunity  How do you take a company that hasn’t had much investment and modernize it?   -Due diligence in a resource-scarce environment What are some of the challenges smaller aerospace suppliers face, and why is it a huge opportunity for the right entrepreneur?   Guest Bio   Scott Ashton is the President and CEO at Aerox®Aviation Oxygen Systems and Aerox® Fluid Power. He is an experienced business aviation executive with P&L expertise managing and operating Part 145 repair stations, and Part 135 charter, aircraft management, and fractional ownership programs.   For more information, head to https://www.aerox.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.

There are two ways to build company culture:   The first is intentional and proactive. The second is by winging it with the hopes that nothing goes wrong, which never happens.   Culture is more than a set of words that hang on the wall. It is a collection of behaviors that permeate so deeply that people do them automatically, even when no one is looking. Hiring those desired behaviors is the key to installing a culture of excellence.   Instead of forcing a set of values on people, think deeply about the values the organization wants to drive and then hire the people who fit them.   Why are company cultures that are built this way more likely to succeed and have engaged employees? How can organizations get this right?   In this episode, I’m joined by Ann Rhoades who has been instrumental in building cultures at Southwest Airlines, JetBlue, and Double Tree Hotels. She shares why culture matters, how to build it correctly, and what leaders need to be mindful of.   Hire for the right behaviors because 90% of the time, those people will behave that way consistently. -Ann Rhoades   Three Things You’ll Learn In This Episode    -Focus on behavior Do organizations skip some important foundational steps in creating their culture?   -The power of intentional culture How can employees become recruiters and gatekeepers of our culture?   -When culture goes wrong How did a certain embattled aircraft manufacturer go from a quality-focused culture to looking over its shoulder wondering where and when the next shoe drops?

The commercial aircraft and engine market may be dislocated but that doesn’t mean there aren’t opportunities for discerning investors. In many ways, the lack of efficiency is the opportunity.   Where are the opportunities right now?   In this episode, co-founder of Inception Aviation Holdings, Adjunct Professor of Finance at NYU Shanghai, and author of Aircraft Valuation: Airplane Investments as an Asset Class, David Yu returns. He gives his take on aviation right now, including Boeing, the supply chain, the regional airline crisis and why he thinks the industry headed in a good direction.   There’s definitely some more efficiencies to be gained out of the current generation, but first off, let’s make sure they are working properly, as advertised. -David Yu    Three Things You’ll Learn In This Episode    -An innovation stalemate With no new engine or airframe on the horizon, where will the developments come from over the next few years?   -How to find the opportunity right now What are some of the challenges the European and Asian markets are facing, and what are the possible solutions?   -Parked planes don’t make any money Is the real opportunity for regional jets affected by the pilot shortage overseas?   Guest Bio   David Yu is the Managing Director, Chief Investment Officer, and co-founder of aviation investing and financing firm, Inception Aviation Holdings. He is also the Executive Director of IBA Group in Asia, a leading global aircraft appraisal and consultancy. A recognized expert in cross-border finance and investing, David is an Adjunct Professor of Finance at NYU Shanghai, where he teaches the ‘Investing and Financing In and With China’ class. David is the author of Aircraft Valuation: Airplane Investments as an Asset Class and a Forbes contributor.   To find out more, go to: http://davidyuda.com https://www.amazon.com/Aircraft-Valuation-Airplane-Investments-Asset/dp/9811567425  https://www.forbes.com/sites/davidyu/?sh=51431f782d7d Or contact David at david.yu@nyu.edu 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.

From pilot pay and recruiting to acquisitions and maintenance scope - OneSky Flight has seen a steady stream of BIG wins. These are huge feats accomplished against the backdrop of a tumultuous industry, and they speak to the leadership of the organization.   OneSky’s success has been done in stages; formulating the strategy to make the company a successful career destination, hiring accomplished “right-fit” aviators, and growing both the fleet and maintenance capacity to keep up with the needs.   How is the leadership balancing these goals while being selective about growth? What measures have they put in place to avoid some of the woes their industry counterparts are facing?   In this episode, SVP and Chief Administrative Officer at OneSky Flight, Bob Sullivan returns to talk about the exciting year the company has had.    World dominance is not our goal - our goal is to be the best. -Bob Sullivan   Things You’ll Learn In This Episode    -Become a career destination While everyone else was turning left and lowering their standards when it comes to talent acquisition and pilot pay, OneSky chose a different path.   -The in-house maintenance investment Securing more maintenance and bringing it “in-house” will help facilitate aircraft fleet growth   -Excellence not dominance Unfettered growth isn’t the goal at OneSky. What are they focused on?   -The magic number The covid era showed that there’s an appetite for private aviation. How can companies identify new customers?   Guest Bio   Bob Sullivan is a SVP and Chief Administrative Officer at OneSky Flight portfolio. With over 25 years of experience in Human Resources, Bob is passionate about ensuring everyone involved in aviation work in harmony with one another. Bob’s enthusiasm for treating everyone as a valuable cog in the machinery is what keeps companies under the OneSky Flight portfolio unique from their competitors. To find out more about OneSky Flight, go to http://www.onesky.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.

Efficiency is mission critical in the high-touch, high-mix, low-volume world of mid-sized MROs. Doing the job right and doing it quickly is the name of the game.   Leaders have to drive velocity and streamline processes and they have to do so while operating in a technical talent-constrained environment.   That’s the job Elliott Aviation’s CEO, Dan Edwards walked into. His perspective: MRO is a fun business. What are some of the concerns he’s balancing as the leader of this organization? How do you balance the legacy play with an ambition for growth?   In this episode, Dan shares what it’s like running Elliott Aviation, how they are finding talent in this environment, and driving up efficiency in a business where it matters most.   The pandemic wreaked havoc on the industry. There’s been so much turnover of talent. Attracting and retaining that talent is the number 1 aspect of having a good business in the MRO world. -Dan Edwards    Three Things You’ll Learn In This Episode    -Don’t chase squirrels  It’s really tempting to chase down the industry and try to compete in every space. How does Dan avoid this trap as CEO?   -A good problem for a CEO to have  How do you find the harmony between the pipeline created by sales and the capacity the operations team actually has?   -The key to a successful MRO business The shortage of technical talent is a pain many MROs are feeling right now. How is Elliott Aviation filling their immediate talent needs while also thinking of the future?   Guest Bio   Dan Edwards is a seasoned aerospace executive and has led a broad array of businesses in both the government and commercial sectors. His new role as CEO of Elliott Aviation is the latest in a successful history in the aerospace and defense industry. Formerly the CEO of Triman Industries, Dan led the development and execution of the aggressive growth strategy that vaulted Triman to the top of military aftermarket distribution by tripling sales and growing profitability by over 5 times. Dan served over 23 years in the USAF both in active duty and reserve status as a KC-10 pilot and Civil Engineer. He graduated from the US Air Force Academy with a Bachelors of Science in Civil Engineering and later earned his MBA in Finance from the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania.   Go to https://www.elliottaviation.com/ for more information or connect with Dan 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.

Most organizations don’t put enough time into the culture and mindset that makes them a great place to work and they miss out on talent because of it.   It’s one thing to post a job and wait for applicants to start rolling in. It’s another thing to proactively make your company a destination - a place people would beat down doors to join.   Maybe it’s HR laziness or an inability to determine your company’s true value proposition, but ultimately, if you’re not thinking about what your company brings to the marketplace, you’re in trouble.   In this edition of Million Dollar Careers, we explore how to make your company stand above the rest when it comes to attracting and retaining talent.   If you’re really good and you can take a company, P&L or territory to new heights, you take the base salary for you to live on and then you work for the upside which you can thrive on. -Craig Picken   Three Things You’ll Learn In This Episode    -How to establish your company as an elite workplace What would make someone want to relocate and move to your company?   -How to make joining your company a no-brainer If salary isn’t enough to compel the best people to join your company, what are they looking for?    -What special force operations teach us about attraction and retention A lot of military operations aren’t lacking in ambitious people eager to join, what’s their secret?    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 OEM’s, 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.

“I’ve got this job, want it or not?” is the absolute worst way to recruit an A+ player. Whether you’re a recruiter or a company looking for talent, the approach you take matters.   Ignoring their motivations or not caring about them at all means that you will risk losing those who can help you the most. Leave a negative impression at the start and you’ll guarantee the role will never get filled.   What are the other mistakes people make in the hiring process? How can conversations can be set up for success instead?   In this episode my good friend and podcast producer Matt Johnson and I talk about why candidates need an advocate, and how recruiters can be one.   Put aside your box of toys, and think about what it would take to get someone happy, healthy and motivated to start the job, itching to go. -Craig Picken   Three Things You’ll Learn In This Episode    -There are only 6 reasons people change jobs How do you pull someone into an opportunity?    -Find a champion What’s the difference between a recruiter who really cares about the candidate and someone who’s just looking to fill a slot?    -Don’t knee-cap the candidate What are the things that leave a negative impression at the point when we want people to be most fired up?   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’ve all seen the flash-in-the-pan companies that take the market by storm but then burn out fast. It’s rare for a privately held company to stay relevant for 5 decades in one of the most volatile industries on earth. But that is exactly what Clay Lacy Aviation has done.   BizAv operators are constantly threading the needle between growth and stability. Rapid expansion at any cost can be deadly, but at the same time, growth can be so slow that they stop being relevant. Growth rate management is the name of the game.   What is driving Clay Lacy Aviation's monumental trajectory? How do they keep their culture of excellence so strong? How do they balance ambition with discipline?   In today’s episode, I’m joined by 3 dynamic Clay Lacy Aviation executives - Joe Barber, Scott Cutshall and Chris Hand. They share the key mindsets and strategies that have been instrumental to their ongoing success   There isn’t a private-equity setup behind our structure so we have to be thoughtful and conservative about how we grow. It has to be done in a long-term view, with discipline. -Joe Barber   Things You’ll Learn In This Episode    -Pace wins the race Sometimes the best way to grow is slowly. How does the Clay Lacy team balance ambition with discipline?   -Peak client alignment How does Clay Lacy Aviation set a client relationship up for success from the inception of the deal?   -Bigger planes, bigger hangars What are the key trends Clay Lacy Aviation’s leadership are focusing on?    -Don’t hire for the book and overlook values How does the Clay Lacy team hire and uphold their culture?   Guest Bio   Joe Barber is Senior Vice President of Commercial Operations at Clay Lacy Aviation. directs Clay Lacy’s strategic commercial activities in aircraft management, jet charter, maintenance and FBO business units. His range of knowledge comes from a grass-roots career, having worked in many facets of the business. Joe began his aviation career in 2004 as an intern at an aircraft management and charter company, and credits the continuous learning opportunities and excellent mentors as a major component of his career.  He’s a committed business aviation professional, to improve the business model and provide principal users with a legendary aviation experience.  He’s an NBAA Certified Aviation Manager (CAM), and was named to NBAA’s inaugural class of “Top 40 Under 40” in 2018. He holds an MBA from California Lutheran University and a B.S. in communications from California State University at Northridge.   Scott Cutshall is Senior Vice President of Strategy & Sustainability at Clay Lacy Aviation. Scott leads strategic development activities and directs marketing, sustainability, and workforce development initiatives across Clay Lacy’s diverse line of business jet services. He is a third-generation pilot whose business aviation expertise spans a wide spectrum of disciplines. His passion for aviation started early. Upon receiving his B.S. in business management from Biola University, he became a Certified Flight Instructor with instrument and multi-engine instruction privileges. In 2000 he began working as a dispatcher for an aircraft management and sales organization with four aircraft that grew to over 75 business jets in 25 cities in the U.S. and China. During his 14-year tenure he served as operations manager, sales director and then vice president of marketing and aircraft management. Scott joined Clay Lacy in 2013 as vice president of marketing, later serving as senior vice president of business operations prior to his current role. In 2021 he received his Corporate Aircraft Manager (CAM) certification from the National Business Aviation Association, is an advocate member of the International Aviation Women’s Association (IAWA), and serves as a mentor for Orange Coast College students.   Chris Hand is Senior Vice President of the Northeast Region at Clay Lacy Aviation. He leads the Eastern U.S. operations, headquartered in Oxford, Connecticut, guiding the flight operations, maintenance, finance and aircraft management teams. During more than two decades in aviation he has served clients ranging from Fortune 500 flight departments to the world’s most prominent individuals. Prior to Clay Lacy, Chris was president and director of operations at a leading charter and management company with a 30-year history, and director of operations at an air freight operator. He has also owned and operated his own aviation businesses, including aircraft leasing and owner/operator airshows. Chris has 12,000 hours in more than 90 aircraft models, and is type rated in Gulfstream G650, Global Express, Falcon 2000, Falcon 50 and several other aircraft. He holds an ATP Multi-Engine Land and Sea Certificate, and is a certified flight instructor. Chris graduated from the John D. Odegard School of Aerospace Sciences at the University of North Dakota with a BS in Aeronautical Studies. For more information, head to https://www.claylacy.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.

Private aviation saw a huge COVID boom and many people who decided to fly private aren’t looking back.   This is a double-edged sword.  Private aviation is a complex industry where staying profitable is like walking a tightrope. There are high client expectations counterbalanced by complex machines and operational challenges. There are also plenty of business models which fail to pan out.   More demand is seemingly a good thing but it has also exposed areas of concern. What are some of the biggest issues being exposed in the industry? What do customers need to understand?   In this episode, I’m joined by Doug Golan who is both a preeminent expert on business jets and editor of Private Jet Card Comparisons. We talk about the state of private aviation, and all the complex issues both consumers and providers endure.   There’s a lot of ways to lose money in private aviation. Sometimes it’s a cancellation fee, sometimes it’s the company going out of business. -Doug Gollan     Three Things You’ll Learn In This Episode    -Suffering from success For private aviation providers, more customers would surely be a good thing, but the reality is a lot more complicated. Why is more business a big concern?    -Never over-buy How can private jet card customers protect themselves when the industry is constantly going through changes?    -Empathizing with business aviation How can customers and providers get on the same page about the difficulties the industry is facing?   Guest Bio   Doug Gollan is the founder and editor of Private Jet Card Comparisons, the only independent buyer's guide to jet card membership programs, and DG Amazing Experiences, a weekly luxury travel e-newsletter for private jet owners. Doug is also a contributor to Forbes.com.    For more information, head to https://privatejetcardcomparisons.com/. You can also sign up for the newsletter.  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 vulnerability of the aerospace supply chain is something we’re all well aware of. But when focusing on specific commodities, a worrying picture emerges.   Considering that the industry gets its titanium from Russia, and that there hasn’t been much effort put towards de-risking the supply, we have a major issue. At the same time, with 18-24 month lead times, high strength steel is also clogging up the supply chain and causing major bottlenecks.   How does it dig itself out of these specific supply chain difficulties? What are some of the other pressing issues affecting aerospace?   In this episode, I’m joined by leading industry expert, and principal and partner at Aerodynamic Advisory, Kevin Michaels. We talk about aerospace’s biggest challenges and steps we can take to overcome them.   Here we are, 18 months after the invasion of Ukraine, and we find ourselves extremely dependent as an industry on Russian titanium. - Kevin Michaels    Things You’ll Learn In This Episode   -The issue no one’s talking about: Boeing has made significant strides to wean itself off Russian titanium, but is it enough?   -How the industry is managing under supply chain constraints The titanium supply chain is only hobbling along because of a suppressed demand. How catastrophic would this have been for the industry in previous years?   -Growing while under threat From Boeing to Airbus, what are the challenges OEMs are facing in this current economic climate?   -Beware of the “no” crowd With the challenges the industry is already facing, is the ESG consideration making the economics more difficult?   Guest Bio   Kevin Michaels is Managing Director of AeroDynamic Advisory, a speciality consulting firm focused on the global aerospace and aviation industries. He has 31 years of experience, including hundreds of consulting engagements for leading aviation and aerospace companies across the globe. Kevin is a globally recognized expert in the aerospace manufacturing and MRO sectors, and has significant expertise in business-to-business marketing, customer satisfaction, M&A advisory, technology assessment, cluster development, and strategic planning. His experience spans all major market segments, including air transport, business & general aviation, and military.   Previously Dr Michaels was a Vice President with ICF International’s Aerospace & MRO consulting practice from 2011 – 2016. He was a co-founder and partner with AeroStrategy from 2001-2011, until its acquisition by ICF. Previously, Dr. Michaels was Director – Strategic Development with Rockwell Collins Government Systems, and Principal with The Canaan Group, an aerospace consultancy. He began his career as a project engineer with aeroengine supplier Williams International. Dr. Michaels holds BS – Aerospace Engineering and MBA degrees from the University of Michigan, and MSc and PhD degrees in International Relations from the London School of Economics.   He is a contributing columnist to Aviation Week & Space Technology and chairs the advisory board of the University of Michigan’s Aerospace Engineering Department. In 2016, he joined the Board of Directors of aircraft parts distributor Kapco Global Proponent. For more information, head to https://aerodynamicadvisory.com/ and https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevin-michaels-3025914.    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 dust up between American Airlines and JSX is an interesting airline industry development. The pilot’s unions say it’s all in the name of safety, but that couldn’t be further from reality.   What’s up with FAR Part 380?   Smaller airlines are trying to take the suck out of flying and continue service for small communities. Why are the majors so dead-set against these small players? Can we really buy the argument that they want to make the industry safer?   The answer is… complicated. There is more to the feud than meets the eye (or the press).   In this episode I’m joined by acclaimed aviation attorney, Paul Lange. We talk about the real motivation behind the industry’s opposition to FAA Part 380 carriers.   The majors and unions don’t want to provide choice to the American public. They want the only model available to be their airlines and fortress hubs. -Paul Lange    Three Things You’ll Learn In This Episode    -An end to the pilot shortage… Is the 1500 hour rule the real reason for the opposition to Part 380 carriers (who can circumvent it). Are there more efficient and effective ways to train pilots?   - Why Part 380 carriers worry the majors How can major carriers view charter carriers as competitive, existential threats when they have just 30 seats and a small fraction of the business?     - Safety or sabotage Major carriers are harping on about the safety (or lack thereof) in the Part 380 carrier space. Is that really what they care about?   Guest Bio   Paul represents aviation businesses in solving significant and challenging problems. His background litigating and trying to verdict judgment aviation matters nationwide before federal and state courts as well as administrative agencies, sometimes simultaneously, brings a breadth of opportunities to the table when seeking to resolve disputes at their earliest opportunity or in complicated business structures restricted by regulatory overlays. In addition to remaining current trying cases, Paul’s transactional and aviation regulatory practice includes formation, mergers and acquisitions of fixed base operators (FBO’s), air carriers, air charter brokers, public charter operators, maintenance and repair organizations (MRO’s), and the purchase, sale and lease of aircraft. Go to http://lopal.com/ or call 203-375-7724.  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.

Many people talk about wanting to be leaders, but a very small number actually turn that dream into reality.   The harsh truth is, most people won’t become CEOs or even grow their careers to a higher level, because they’re just not thinking the right way.   So, how does a leader think, and how are their habits different from those of the average Joe? Is there a way to change our mindsets so they’re better suited to a leadership role?   In this episode, executive recruiter and President of MR Fairfax, Robert Houghton and I are discussing the common attributes ALL great leaders have in common, and how to emulate them in our own careers.    "Thinking like a CEO is a difficult thing to master because you have to be part-owner, part-employee and captain of the ship." -Robert Houghton   Things You’ll Learn In This Episode    -The importance of maintaining focus It’s impossible to reach our goals if we’re easily distracted. How can we really zone in on the activities guaranteed to help us push the needle forward?   -The education EVERY CEO needs to have What are the non-negotiable skills leaders need to have and how can we go about acquiring them?    -Why communication is key How can we expect to grow our careers to the next level if we don’t know how to communicate our ideas with others?    -The best way to handle Negative Nancies in our organizations It’s not easy to work when we’re surrounded by negativity, so what can we do if we find ourselves in that situation?   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 OEM’s, 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.

Economic fragility, long-running supply chain woes, long lead times, and labor. These are just a few forces exerting massive pressure on aviation.   In this highly chaotic market, operators and suppliers have been put through the whipsaw, and that shows no sign of letting up anytime soon. With the new aircraft market still heavily backed up, ripples are being felt across the entire industry - especially in leasing.   Anyone taking delivery of aircraft is making hay while the sun shines, and ultimately, the prevailing market conditions will catch up.   Under such pressure cooker conditions, who wins, who loses and who should be worried?   In this episode, partner at Split Rock Aviation, Andy Mansell returns to share how market pressure is affecting the industry, and what the near future holds.   In our industry, there’s no such thing as an overnight fix. You can implement an overnight fix, but it takes a long time for that to flow through. -Andy Mansell     Three Things You’ll Learn In This Episode    -New aircraft…it gets worse before it gets better There was major supply chain pressure even before covid hit. What does this mean for the near future of new aircraft?   -The market will resolve itself… A lot of levers are being pulled to meet the market demands, but will it be enough?   -Freight ain’t for the faint of heart  Could the cargo market help steady businesses or is it just too challenging a niche to explore?     Guest Bio   Andy Mansell is a commercial aviation leasing industry veteran with an extensive background in developing, implementing, and executing strategies for aircraft trading and leasing. He is a Partner at Split Rock Aviation and has previously held leadership roles at Charlotte Parker and Associates LLC, Aviation Capital Group, and Boullioun Aviation Services.    To find out more, head to: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andy-mansell www.splitrockaviation.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.

Every business wants to onboard top talent, but are we actively positioning our organizations as the type of place people want to work, or are we letting that crucial element slip through the cracks?   For most businesses, the latter is true. The reality is, we don’t do enough to entice talented would-be recruits, and in today’s world, where salary alone just isn’t enough to impress, not being clear on what sets us apart from our competitors will only put us on the back pedal.   So, how can we get more intentional about creating a brand identity that resonates with our ideal employees?   In this episode, Founder and CEO of Ph.Creative, Bryan Adams shares how to build the kind of company the workforce is lining up to join.   "As an employer, you have to know exactly who you are and what you’re looking for." -Bryan Adams     Three Things You’ll Learn In This Episode    -The factors most likely to attract top performers What are our ideal recruits looking for in a new position, and how can we be the ones to give it to them?    -Why our interview process is more crucial than we think Could an ineffective interview system actually cost us business, as well as the potential to onboard top recruits?    -How to continually attract the A-players What can we do to entice top talent both now and in the long term?   Guest Bio-    Bryan Adams is the Founder and CEO of leading employer brand agency, Ph.Creative. A two-times bestselling author, Bryan is also a podcaster and specialist speaker, passionate about getting his audiences to think differently. Bryan is widely renowned as an employer brand thought leader, and has worked alongside some of the world’s best-known brands to reshape their image over the years.    To find out more, go to: https://www.ph-creative.com/  https://www.linkedin.com/in/bryanadams1  https://www.amazon.com/Give-Get-Employer-Branding-Belonging-ebook/dp/B084ZCJWTJ https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/099555949X/ref=dbs_a_def_rwt_bibl_vppi_i1     You can also contact Bryan directly at:  bryan@ph-creative.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 OEM’s, 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.