CJI Podcast #13: Craig Picken "My reputation, my diligence"

Craig Picken is an executive recruiter, ICF-trained executive coach, writer, and speaker who specialises in the business aviation and aerospace industry. With over 400 executive-level searches completed since 2008, he focuses on placing senior leadership, sales, and operations talent with top OEMs, aircraft operators, financial institutions, and MRO providers. Craig is unique in the industry - he has flown aircraft, sold them, and successfully run profit-and-loss operations in aviation businesses.

Craig Picken shares his unique journey through the business aviation industry, starting with his decorated career in the US Navy, followed by leadership roles at Gulfstream and Bombardier, and eventually founding his own executive search firm focused on aviation and aerospace.

Craig offers a behind-the-scenes look at the cultural and leadership differences between major OEMs and how these experiences shaped his understanding of how company culture plays a critical role in hiring the right leaders.

The conversation also explores the ongoing evolution of business aviation, from the growth of fractional ownership models like NetJets and Flexjet to current challenges such as global supply chain disruptions. Craig provides valuable insight into how these dynamics impact hiring and organisational strategy.

He outlines his relationship-focused approach to executive recruiting, emphasising alignment between candidate and company culture, and encourages professionals to proactively invest in their own development through coaching, education, and industry engagement.

Hear more of Craig and his executives on his Aerospace Executive Podcast at: https://www.podbean.com/pw/pbblog-ncahu-266e14