Mission Critical: Defense Recruiting

What happens when innovation, mission-critical needs, and geopolitical shifts come together in one game-changing deal? In this episode, we talk to Per Norén, CEO of Ovzon AB, a Swedish satellite communications company that's leading the way in secure, mobile connectivity solutions. Per shares insights on Ovzon's $110 million contract with the Swedish Defense Material Administration, marking a milestone in mission-critical satellite connectivity. This isn't just about technology—it's about resilience, speed, and the future of satellite communications in defense. From breaking into the U.S. defense market to launching their Ovzon 3 satellite, Ovzon is paving the way for mobile, ultra-resilient satellite terminals that are changing how defense and emergency services operate. If you're in the aerospace or defense sectors, this conversation offers valuable insights into the future of satellite communication, what's next for defense technology, and how Ovzon's commitment to flexibility and performance is shaping the industry. 💡 What You'll Learn in This Episode: Why mobility, performance, and resiliency are the core pillars of Ovzon's success in mission-critical satellite connectivity How Ovzon secured its largest contract to date and the steps taken to build strong relationships with key defense stakeholders What makes Swedish engineering and innovation stand out in the global satellite sector Why LEO constellations and GEO satellites are complementary technologies, not competitors What's next for Ovzon as they continue their journey toward becoming a global leader in secure, mobile satellite connectivity "We're going to see sovereign capability requirements in many countries around the world in the next five years."– Per Norén 🌍 Looking to the Future: The Next Era of Space Technology: Why sovereign satellite capabilities will be essential for global defense strategies. Sustainability in Space: How regulations and innovation will drive a more sustainable future for satellite communications. Ovzon's Growth Path: How Ovzon is positioning itself as a world leader in providing secure, ubiquitous connectivity for critical missions. 🔗 Connect with Per Norén and Ovzon AB: Website: https://www.ovzon.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/per-nor%C3%A9n-99714a1/ Produced in partnership with: http://www.podlad.com

"What this industry didn't need was another aerospace executive. It needed someone willing to ask why we do things the way we do" – Peter Krauss Peter Krauss didn't grow up in aerospace. He never worked in defense. So how did he become CEO of one of the most innovative space tech companies in the world? That's exactly what makes this episode of Mission Critical so powerful. As the new CEO of Terran Orbital, Peter brings a fresh, entrepreneurial lens to a legacy industry—and it's shaking things up. He's spearheading "Terran 2.0," a return to the company's disruptive roots, and he's doing it by hiring differently, leading boldly, and building a culture where speed and innovation thrive. Whether you're in leadership, hiring, or just curious about what the future of space looks like, this conversation will change how you think about leadership and talent in the defense sector. 💡 What You'll Learn in This Episode: · Why being an outsider can be your biggest asset in a legacy-driven industry · What "Terran 2.0" really means—and how it's reshaping satellite manufacturing · The key traits Peter looks for in new hires (hint: it's not pedigree) · How to spot the difference between a risk-taker and a risk-mitigator · What it really means to be "fast" in aerospace · Why cultural fit and execution energy matter more than the perfect résumé · How to hire leaders from traditional primes without inheriting old mindsets · The simple metric every CEO should track (and it's not what you think) 🧠 CEO Insight: The Krauss Leadership Playbook · Say yes, then figure it out. Peter's career was built on writing checks his body "wasn't sure it could cash"—and figuring it out anyway. · Don't avoid risk—manage it. Especially in fast-moving industries like space. · Challenge everything. Especially "how we've always done it." That's where disruption starts. Connect with Peter: https://terranorbital.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/peter-krauss-ceo/ Get connected with your host, Katherine Jerald: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katherinejerald/ https://elraysearch.com/ This podcast is proudly produced in partnership with podlad.com

"The last two to three years have brought more change to the satellite industry than the previous two decades combined." – Tim Winter In this episode of Mission Critical, Katherine Jerald sits down with Tim Winter, CEO of iDirect Government, to discuss the massive disruptions shaping the satellite communications (SATCOM) industry and what they mean for government, defense, and commercial players. Tim shares insights on how companies can compete in a rapidly evolving market, the role of LEO vs. GEO satellites, and why secure, multi-orbit communications are crucial for military operations. Drawing from his 20+ years in SATCOM and his experience as a Naval flight officer, Tim offers a unique perspective on innovation, risk management, and what the future holds for satellite technology. What You'll Learn in This Episode: · How industry disruption—from Starlink to Kuiper—is reshaping SATCOM · Why secure, multi-orbit solutions are essential for government and defense · The challenges of VC-funded space startups and how to stand out · The real risks of satellite communications in modern warfare · Lessons from Tim's military career that shape his leadership today · How the next generation of space technology will impact global defense strategies If you're in the satellite industry, government defense, or simply curious about the future of space-based communications, this episode is packed with insights you won't want to miss. Connect with Tim Winter: www.idirectgov.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/tim-winter-557723 Get connected with your host, Katherine Jerald: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katherinejerald/ https://elraysearch.com/ This podcast is proudly produced in partnership with podlad.com

Why is this very moment in history being called the "gold rush of our time"? Retired Colonel Ram Riojas joins Katherine to tell us all. With 26 years of distinguished military service, Ram has been a trailblazer in the evolution of air, space, cyber and Special Ops, as a founding member of the US Space Force and US Space Command, essentially helping shape the Space Force before it even existed. Ram has led budgets of up to 64 billion in space and cyber programs, shaping the future of national defense. Ram also walked the entrepreneurial path, founding Delta defense and scaling it from zero to 200 team members in just two and a half years. Buckle up to discover why space innovation is no longer just for governments, why now is the perfect time to capitalize on the booming new space economy, and how the patience and cultural sensitivity play key roles in building trusting relationships, plus, some Chicago politics too! Key points throughout include: Modernizing Defense: Space & Cyber Tech in Weapon Systems How the Commercial Sector Is Driving Space Innovation & Technology The Evolution of Defense Advisory Models The New Space Ecomonmy: What Does It Really Mean? How SpaceX & Starlink AreTransforming Global Connectivity What's the Next Big Opportunity in the New Space Economy? The Secret To Building A Unified Strategy Across Air, Space, Cyber & Special Ops How Veterans Can Enhance Your Business With Global Experience & Insight The Key To Becoming A Master In Your Domain Ram Reveals The Most Critical Human Element in National Defense Building Trust in Business: Why Solving Problems Comes First! "Everything terrestrially that we use is actually depending on space. Look at SpaceX with Starlink, it's one of the largest companies in the world. Now, what that does is it opens up other portals, if you will, for other businesses and other capabilities." – Ram Riojas. Get connected with Ram Riojas: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ram-riojas-855318227/ Get connected with your host, Katherine Jerald: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katherinejerald/ https://elraysearch.com/ This podcast is proudly produced in partnership with podlad.com

What does it take to lead a company at the forefront of hypersonic technology? You're about to find out! Dan Jablonsky, CEO of Ursa Major, joins Katherine to unpack his unique journey from Navy nuclear engineer to attorney, and now, a visionary leader transforming aerospace innovation. With over 100 days as CEO, Dan shares his leadership philosophy, the power of adaptability, and how he's building a company culture where values are not just written on a wall, but are lived every single day. Dan also uncovers the fascinating link between humility and paranoia in business, and reveals how Ursa Major is revolutionizing aerospace, taking designs from concept to test in just 29 days. This episode is a masterclass in innovation, resilience, and mastering change to turn potential into real-world impact. Don't miss it! Key points include: 100 Days as CEO of Ursa Major Cool Tech Isnt Enough: Turning Innovation into Real-World Impact The Challenges and Breakthroughs in Hypersonic Technology Leading Through Change: The Essential Human and Strategic Elements Required Embracing Disruption: How to Recognize and Leverage Moments of Transformation Can Your Life Story Shape Your Leadership Journey? How to Maintain Team Cohesion and Focus During Transformation Must Know Communication Tactics for CEOs and GMs Why No Company Has a Predetermined Right to Exist! Balancing Core Competencies and Radical Innovation What the Future Holds: Hypersonic Innovation and Unmatched Speed "Just because you have a great technology or a great set of people or even a great position in the marketplace, you may not tomorrow. Be two things, be humble in your approach to that, and be, to some degree, quite paranoid about what the marketplace and the environment might do to your company." – Dan Jablonsky. Ready to transform your hiring strategy and attract top defense talent? Take our 12-question quiz to discover where your firm stands and receive a personalized report to boost your recruitment success! Take the quiz now: https://elraysearch.scoreapp.com/ Get connected with Dan Jablonsky: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniel-jablonsky/ https://www.ursamajor.com/ Get connected with your host, Katherine Jerald: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katherinejerald/ https://elraysearch.com/ This podcast is proudly produced in partnership with podlad.com

Imagine skyrocketing a company from $800 million to a multi-billion dollar entity—how is it done? This week our guest is Alfonzo Ianniello, the visionary CEO of Codan Limited. Codan is a manufacturer and supplier of communications, metal detection, and mining technology. It's products include Minelab, DTC & Zetron "Always be dissatisfied at all elements of the organization, whether it's your customer interactions, whether your internal processes or your tech roadmaps. Always be dissatisfied, always push for what good is and improve that current state." – Alfonzo Ianniello Alf unveils the strategic insights behind his success, emphasizing a relentless customer-first mindset and the importance of maintaining a startup spirit within a flourishing enterprise. With a career spanning industries from packaging to tech, Alf provides a unique perspective on how cultural adaptability and quick decision-making are crucial in navigating the complexities of business challenges. Explore the shifting paradigms of leadership and organizational culture alongside us. Together with insights from aerospace and defense executives, we reimagine traditional management models, focusing instead on employee experience and personal growth. Listen as we discuss the vital role of organizational culture in managing diverse teams and creating positive workplaces. From the exhilarating challenges of global travel to the essence of finding joy and resilience in one's work, this episode is a heartfelt invitation to embrace the business journey and remain steadfastly committed to your mission. Discover how Alf Ianniello's customer-centric approach turned Codan Limited into a multi-billion-dollar company. Gain leadership insights from Alf's experiences in 11 countries, focusing on cultural adaptability and quick decision-making. See the shift from traditional, fear-based leadership to modern styles prioritizing employee satisfaction and growth. Learn strategies for fostering a positive workplace and managing diverse teams through strong organizational culture. Explore sustainable business practices with a focus on long-term vision and continuous growth. Understand talent management by identifying and nurturing key attributes like attitude, curiosity, and a can-do approach. Embrace resilience and fulfillment by finding joy in work, staying focused in turbulence, and staying mission-driven. Get connected with Alf Ianniello: Alfonzo Ianniello | LinkedIn Learn more about Codan and it's companies: https://codan.com.au/ https://codancomms.com/ https://www.minelab.com/ https://www.zetron.com/ Get connected with your host, Katherine Jerald: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katherinejerald/ https://elraysearch.com/ This podcast is proudly produced in partnership with podlad.com

What does it take to climb from an entry-level position to the executive suite in aerospace? Join us as Nikki Malcolm, CEO and Executive Director of the Pacific Northwest Aerospace Alliance (PNAA), shares her incredible journey from an 18-year-old filing assistant to leading one of North America's largest commercial aerospace manufacturing clusters. Nikki's story is a testament to the power of curiosity, relationship-building, and problem-solving. Get ready to hear how her passion and skills drove double-digit sales growth and led her to spearhead innovation and community building within the industry. Throughout the discussion, Nikki highlights the pivotal role of diversity and supportive management in shaping the future of aerospace. She also explores the challenges of attracting top talent in a rapidly changing work environment and provides valuable insights into generational differences in workplace motivations. Discover how companies can adapt their hiring practices to align with the values of younger generations. Additionally, Nikki tackles the complexities of remote work and the transformative potential of aerospace careers for individuals from challenging backgrounds. Buckle up to break down accessibility barriers, learn the importance of getting comfortable with discomfort and so much more! Further key points throughout include: How Curiosity and Persistent Questioning Fueled Nikki's Career Advancement The secret to achieving Consistent Double-Digit Sales Growth Building Strong Vendor Relationships and Lasting Partnerships Breathing Fresh Life into the Aerospace Industry The Challenges and Opportunities for SMEs in the Aerospace Industry A Push for Faster Progress in Advancing Diversity in Aerospace Workforce development: What is the incentive for people to move faster? Being uncomfortable in growth: Pursuing Dreams in Uncertain Times The Aerospace Career Awareness Campaign: Elevating Awareness of Careers and Training Opportunities in Aerospace Curating a Diverse Board: Selecting Members with Varied Skills and Experiences Top Tips for Building a Powerful Team Today Advice for Young People Seeking Career Progression "You get your work done way faster. What's your reward for that, more work? My hypothesis is that if you incentivize them, you're gonna see that your productivity goes through the roof. So we have to think differently about what motivates them." – Nikki Malcolm. Ready to transform your hiring strategy and attract top defense talent? Take our 12-question quiz to discover where your firm stands and receive a personalized report to boost your recruitment success! Take the quiz now: https://elraysearch.scoreapp.com/ Are you ready to unleash the beast in defense recruiting? Join us next time on Mission Critical Defense Recruiting, the ultimate podcast unveiling strategies to build powerhouse teams in the defense industry. Don't miss out on the inside scoop for crafting your unbeatable squad! Get connected with Nikki Malcolm: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nikkimalcom/ https://www.pnaa.net/ https://www.aerospace-connect.com/ Get connected with your host, Katherine Jerald: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katherinejerald/ https://elraysearch.com/ This podcast is proudly produced in partnership with podlad.com