Episoder
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How can transforming cybersecurity from a cost center into a strategic profit booster revolutionize the U.S. manufacturing industry?
In this episode of The Titanium Economy, Nidhi Arora talks with Dr. Howard Grimes, CEO of CyManII, about transforming cybersecurity from a manufacturing cost center into a profit driver. Dr. Grimes highlights the need for cybersecurity innovations that boost energy efficiency and cut production costs. He discusses the vulnerabilities in digitized manufacturing and CyManII's role in protecting the U.S. sector from cyber threats, especially from nation-state actors. CyManII’s projects are geared toward securing the "titanium economy" and strengthening both national and economic security.Dr. Howard Grimes leads CyManII, a U.S. Department of Energy-funded institute focused on cybersecurity in manufacturing. With 25+ years in research program leadership, Dr. Grimes has held key roles at institutions like UT San Antonio and Idaho National Laboratory. His work at CyManII aims to make cybersecurity a strategic advantage, enhance energy efficiency, and defend U.S. manufacturing against modern cyber threats.
Discussion Points
Cybersecurity-Manufacturing Intersection: Highlights the critical risks in digitized manufacturing and the need for innovative defenses.From Academia to National Security: Dr. Grimes discusses his path to CyManII, emphasizing partnerships and expert teams aimed at manufacturing cybersecurity.CyManII's Cutting-Edge Projects: Showcases groundbreaking initiatives in cybersecurity, stressing collaboration and tech advancements for resilient manufacturing.Transforming Cybersecurity into Advantage: CyManII links cybersecurity to energy efficiency, showing how it can become a strategic economic benefit for manufacturers.Building Alliances for Security: Strategic alliances with industry, academia, and labs create a robust ecosystem to tackle manufacturing cyber threats.Future Vision for Secure Manufacturing: Dr. Grimes envisions manufacturing and cybersecurity as inseparable, vital to a resilient national economy.For More Information
Howard Grimes LinkedIn
CyManII
Titanium Economy
Nidhi Arora LinkedIn
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How is AI transforming the automotive industry, and what role do semiconductors play in this revolution?
In this episode, Dipti Vachani, SVP and GM of Automotive at Arm talks aabout the transformative role of AI and semiconductor tech in the automotive industry with Nidhi Arora, VP of Business Development and Marketing at Ayna. Dipti shares how the low-power compute technology of Arm, originally developed for mobile phones, has revolutionized automotive, infrastructure, and IoT. She also highlights key partnerships across the automotive supply chain that are driving innovation in autonomous driving and vehicle safety.Dipti Vachani is the senior vice president and general manager for the Automotive Line of Business at Arm. She previously held key roles at Texas Instruments and Intel, focusing on embedded computing solutions and low-power technologies that power modern tech. Dipti is also committed to empowering the next generation of women in tech.
Discussion Points
Dipti Vachani discusses how Arm expanded from low-power computing in mobile phones to transforming industries like automotive, enabling advancements in autonomous driving and safety.Strategic partnerships are highlighted as key to driving innovation and maintaining Arm’s leadership in semiconductors.Dipti explains how AI is reshaping OEMs, tier-one suppliers, and semiconductor companies, revolutionizing data collection, simulation, and healthcare.Dipti shares her career journey from India to Arm, emphasizing her commitment to supporting women in tech.The strategic evolution of Arm over the last 30 years and its direction under CEO Rene Haas are discussed.Dipti offers insights on the future of AI, stressing the need for low-power technology to support sustainable AI growth and its broader industry impact.
For More Information
Dipti Vachani LinkedIn
Arm
Titanium EconomyNidhi Arora LinkedIn
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How did MSA Safety's collaboration with Thomas Edison over a century ago pave the way for groundbreaking innovations in worker protection today?
In this episode, Gaurav Batra talks with Lee McChesney, SVP & CFO of MSA Safety. Lee shares the 110-year journey of MSA, highlighting its shift from a product-focused to a solutions-driven company. He also discusses how technology, AI, and industry megatrends are helping MSA protect 40 million workers annually.Lee McChesney, SVP and CFO of MSA Safety, has nearly 30 years of experience in finance and leadership. Since joining MSA in 2022, he has applied his strategic expertise from previous roles at Stanley Black & Decker and United Technologies to drive value creation and operational success.
Discussion Points
Lee relates MSA Safety's 110-year legacy and mission, highlighting the company's focus areas: detection systems, fire services, and industrial PPETechnological innovations and leadership under CEO Steve Blanco have fortified MSA's missionLee discusses the shift from a product-centric to a solutions-centric approach, leveraging AI and industry megatrendsHe shares insights from his career in finance and leadership. Diverse experiences, forward-thinking, and continuous evolution are what drive sustained growthSuccessful M&A requires disciplined strategy, thorough diligence, and core business stability. Integration and execution must involve the same teams to ensure cohesive outcomes
For More Information
Lee McChesney LinkedIn
MSAGaurav Batra LinkedIn
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Wondering about the future of emerging technology in logistics? Where do autonomous trucks and AI come into play?
Gaurav Batra, President and CEO of Ayna speaks with Lior Ron, founder and CEO of Uber Freight, about the transformative power of technology on logistics. Lior shares how Uber Freight's digital-first approach uses advanced data science and vast shipper and carrier networks to streamline supply chains, enhance efficiency, and boost sustainability. He addresses key challenges with fragmentation and market transparency issues and highlights Uber Freight’s scalable tech-driven solutions and international footprint, including North America and the EU.
Lior Ron has over 20 years of expertise in tech-driven solutions, has an impressive background including key roles at Google Maps and Motorola Mobility. As the leader of Uber Freight, he and the team are powering intelligent logistics, leveraging a suite of end-to-end logistics applications, managed services and an expansive carrier network to move the world’s goods.
Uber Freight's focus on modernizing supply chain and how it leverages advanced data science.Solving customer pain points with technology and empowering customers with dataTackling industry fragmentation, eliminating empty miles, and elevating sustainability through a combination of innovative tools and industry expertise.Transforming traditional industries by collaborating with innovative people and partners, utilizing emerging tech, and building solid data foundationsUber Freight’s position as a transformative partner, leveraging tech and talent to optimize supply chains and expand its geological footprint.
Discussion Points
For More Information
Lior Ron LinkedIn
Uber Freight
Titanium EconomyGaurav Batra LinkedIn
Ayna's Website
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How can smart manufacturing revolutionize the U.S. industrial landscape, especially for smaller manufacturers struggling with a digital divide? In this episode, John Dyck, CEO of the Clean Energy Smart Manufacturing Innovation Institute (CESMII), shares his deep expertise in manufacturing, automation, and software. He's dedicated to reducing technical debt and promoting smart manufacturing technologies to boost U.S. manufacturing's competitiveness and sustainability.
John brings extensive experience from his roles at Rockwell Automation, GE, and Mesa's board, where he tackled manufacturing complexities and technical challenges. At Rockwell, he advanced automation solutions, while at GE, he led data analytics and IoT initiatives. As CEO of CESMII since 2018, John is recognized globally for his insights into technology and business management.
Discussion Points
John Dyck highlights CESMII's mission to boost U.S. manufacturing by reducing costs and complexity, especially for small manufacturers.CESMII's strategies include workforce development, technological methodologies, and a collaborative ecosystem to make smart manufacturing accessible and address technical debt.CESMII fosters collaboration across the manufacturing sector, utilizing federal mandates and partnerships with institutions like UCLA.The discussion covers CESMII's future role, focusing on influencing policymakers, being a key voice in manufacturing, and strengthening U.S. manufacturing through strategic collaboration.
For More Information
John Dyck LinkedIn
CESMII -
What does it take to stay ahead in the competitive industrial sector for nearly a century? In this episode Nidhi Arora welcomes Mark Sheahan, CEO of Graco, to discuss the company’s journey of innovation and resilience in the industrial sector. He shares insights on Graco's pioneering work in the automotive industry and the critical role of precision engineering in handling new materials. He emphasizes the importance of niche markets and continuous innovation to maintain a competitive edge.
Mark has been with the company for nearly 30 years, holding various leadership roles before becoming CEO in June 2021. His career includes positions such as Chief Financial Officer, Vice President, and General Manager of the Applied Fluid Technologies Division, and Chief Administrative Officer. Prior to joining Graco, Mark was a Senior Tax Manager at KPMG. He holds degrees in Business and Law, bringing a wealth of expertise to his long-time role at Graco.
Discussion Points
Innovation and Solutions: Graco innovates to solve complex manufacturing problems, enhancing productivity, quality, and cost-efficiency.Competitive Edge: Graco targets niche markets and emphasizes innovation, delivering high-quality, precise, customer-centric solutions.Automotive Involvement: Graco develops solutions for new materials and applications, including EV battery manufacturing.Risk Management: Graco maintains zero tolerance in risk management, focusing on cybersecurity, supply chain resilience, and regulatory compliance.COVID-19 Response: Graco balanced flexible work and family-oriented culture while adapting to supply chain disruptions and market changes.AI and Analytics: AI and data analytics enhance Graco's customer service and marketing, improving customer processes and decision-making.
For More Information
Mark Sheahan LinkedIn
GracoAyna.AI Website
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In this episode Sara O'Rourke, Chief of Staff and Head of Operations for the CHIPS Investment Office chats with Nidhi Arora. She provides an in-depth analysis of the CHIPS and Science Act of 2022. Sara discusses the pivotal role of semiconductors in America's economic and national security and outlines the innovative strategies of the CHIPS program, which manages over $50 billion in federal investment to revitalize U.S. semiconductor manufacturing.
Sara O’Rourke began her career with impactful work in education and women's economic empowerment in the Middle East, leading her to address significant challenges. At McKinsey, she spent nearly a decade driving financial and operational transformations for businesses and government agencies, co-founding the Center for Reinvesting in America to leverage federal investments in infrastructure, clean energy, and technology. Sara holds a bachelor's degree in social studies from Harvard and a master's in international affairs and finance from Johns Hopkins.
Discussion Points
Sara discusses the CHIPS and Science Act of 2022, focusing on its impact on the U.S. semiconductor industry and the program's unique team approach to maximize federal investment.Investments in the semiconductor supply chain include major deals like Intel and Brookfield, and investments in companies such as Micron, Intel, TSMC, and Samsung.The CHIPS office is also supporting companies like Global Foundries and Microchip, and projects like advanced packaging with Lipsalix.The CHIPS office targets 20% leading-edge production in the U.S., emphasizing job creation and workforce challenges.The program follows milestone-based funding and private capital to encourage larger investments in semiconductor manufacturing.The CHIPS office's collaborative approach integrates policy experts, industry veterans, and intelligence professionals to advance U.S. semiconductor capabilities.
For More Information
Sara O’Rourke LinkedIn
Nidhi Arora LinkedIn
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Listen to an illuminating discussion with Tom Ferguson, the President and CEO of AZZ Inc. Tom chats with Connor Bradley and shares his insights on AZZ’s role in the infrastructure and construction sectors, driven by the data center market boom. The conversation also explores AZZ's strategic growth, including the 2022 acquisition of Precoat Metals, the impact of the IIJA and CHIPS Act, and innovations in metal manufacturing.
Tom has been at the helm of AZZ for over a decade, and has propelled the company to prominence in the hot-dip galvanizing and coil-coating industry. Before AZZ, Tom spent nearly 25 years at FlowServe, where he held multiple leadership roles. Under his guidance, AZZ has seen substantial growth, including the strategic acquisition of Precoat Metals and a smooth CFO transition. Tom's expertise has been pivotal in driving AZZ's success in the infrastructure and construction sectors.
Discussion Points
Tom Ferguson discusses his journey as CEO of AZZ Inc., highlighting the company's growth and strategic innovations in the galvanizing and coil-coating market.AZZ's CFO transition plan emphasizes leveraging internal talent for smooth leadership changes.The 2022 acquisition of Precoat Metals has strengthened AZZ's market position and growth.Prepainted metal's rising importance in construction and AZZ's expansion in distribution and data centers show innovation and growth.The discussion covers infrastructure investments from the IIJA and CHIPS Act, focusing on integrating these with existing systems for better efficiency.For More Information
Tom Ferguson LinkedIn
AZZ
Titanium Economy WebsiteAyna.AI Website
Connor Bradley
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Host Connor Bradley, Associate at Ayna, speaks with finance expert Kelly Janzen about the modern CFO role. Ms. Janzen, who has held leadership roles at GE Healthcare and Blue Links Corporation, highlights the need for CFOs to possess skills beyond finance, including operations and change management. She shares her experience in leading a strategic pivot during the pandemic, emphasizing the role of an innovative Investor Relations program in boosting financial stability and shareholder value. Kelly also talks about the importance of effective capital allocation, tax, and legal considerations for successful M&A activities.
Kelly Janzen is currently serving as Executive in Residence at Fernweh Group. With a foundation in technical accounting, Kelly has a career that spans prestigious companies such as GE Healthcare, Westrock, and BlueLinx Corporation. Her journey from public accounting to strategic leadership in finance has equipped her to handle complex M&A deals and transform financial strategies. Kelly’s approach to the modern CFO role includes broadening skill sets to include finance and operations, emphasizing the importance of adapting and engaging with challenging projects to excel in dynamic financial landscapes.
Discussion Points
Kelly Janzen's journey in the field of finance began with public accounting and moving up the ranks to hold Chief Financial Officer roles in various organizations.During the global pandemic, Kellys team shifted its focus to maintaining a just-in-time inventory system and specializing in specific products.A significant part of Kelly’s CFO role involves capital allocation and managing investor relations. Kelly shares her experiences hiring a consultant to work with banks and financial analysts and provides valuable insights on how to secure stock coverage.Janzen emphasizes the need for finance teams to focus on return on investment (ROI) and risk assessments when allocating capital. By doing so, they can ensure that every investment made contributes to the business's overall growth and success.Discussion on insights into the considerations that come into play during mergers and acquisitions. How tax rules and operational integration strategies are significant factors in these decisions.For More Information
Kelly Janzen LinkedIn
Book: The Titanium Economy -
Mark Behrman, CEO of LSB Industries, discusses the transformative realm of the chemical industry with Nidhi Arora, VP at Ayna. Their discussion focuses on the revolutionary impact of nitrogen chemicals in agriculture and industry, LSB's strategic initiatives for growth, and their pioneering role in the clean energy transition. Behrman shares insights on the potential of low-carbon ammonia production, strategic partnerships, and the challenges and opportunities that come with high-stakes investments in the evolving energy sector.
Mark Behrman, has an extensive background spanning corporate governance, executive management, and over 25 years of investment banking. His leadership has elevated LSB Industries, a key player in chemical products manufacturing, particularly focusing on nitrogen chemicals for various industries. Berman's journey has seen him rise through the ranks, demonstrating strategic prowess that has led LSB to focus on organic growth, reliability initiatives, and engaging in the energy transition through carbon capture projects and low-carbon ammonia production.
Discussion Points
LSB's engagement with nitrogen chemicals and their role in transition to clean energy, especially, the company's projects on carbon capture and low-carbon ammonia production.The complexities of investing in the clean energy sector are explored, with a focus on the dynamics of setting selling prices for products like low-carbon ammonia and securing customer commitments.LSB’s diversified market strategy, which allows flexibility and optimization of production across different industries, amidst changing agricultural needs.Navigating global economic shifts to remain agile in the face of energy crises, food security issues, and geopolitical tensions like the Russia-Ukraine conflict.Leadership's role in fostering innovation and guiding industrial growth as Behrman reflects on his experiences as both CEO and board member.The importance of hiring the right people, empowering teams, and developing an entrepreneurial culture.The resurgence of manufacturing in the United States is discussed, with attention to the trend of companies relocating production back to the U.S. due to favorable business conditions. Berman credits the nation's political and economic climate for facilitating this shift, which is reinforced by the recent policy incentives.For More Information
LSB Industries Website
Mark Behrman on LinkedIn
Book: The Titanium Economy
Nidhi Arora LinkedIn
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Andy Mattes, a seasoned CEO with a wealth of experience in leading complex organizations such as Coherent Laser and Diebold speaks to Ninad Singh, Director at Ayna.AI. The conversation delves into the strategies and insights that Andy has garnered over the years, touching upon the challenges of mergers and acquisitions, financial stabilization, and the importance of setting ambitious yet achievable goals. Andy offers a deep dive into the art of navigating a company through competitive markets and regulatory frameworks, revealing the executive-level decisions that drive growth and success within large corporations.
Andy Mattes is known for his impressive track record as the former CEO of Coherent, where he significantly increased operating margins and revenue between 2020 and 2022, culminating in the company's $7 billion sale to II-VI Incorporated. Prior to his tenure at Coherent, Andy led Diebold as its President and CEO, overseeing a period of robust growth including a 16% CAGR from 2013 to 2017 and the strategic $1.8 billion acquisition of Wincor-Nixdorf. His extensive background in managing companies that operate at the intersection of hardware, services, and software places him in a unique position to offer valuable insights into the complexities of steering industry-leading organizations toward transformative growth.
Discussion Points
Andy Mattes highlights Coherent's crucial role in producing OLED displays for smartphones, acknowledging the need for new growth strategies after equipment saturation.Mattes discusses navigating acquisitions in diverse regulatory environments, balancing German takeover laws' fund certainty with varied U.S. shareholder approval thresholds and timelines.Reflecting on Coherent's sale to II-IV Incorporated, Mattes underscores the importance of defining deal structures and the CEO's role in post-acquisition transitions.Internal support is vital for successful transformations, as revealed by organizational health surveys at Coherent, providing actionable insights for strategic change.Mattes advocates for adopting an activist or private equity mindset to identify ambitious yet achievable growth opportunities, setting challenging goals for companies.Reflecting on career milestones, Mattes highlights lessons on financial management, including the impact of operational decisions on EPS and the critical role of cash flow in meeting payroll.For More Information
Andy Mattes LinkedIn
Coherent
Diebold
Book: The Titanium Economy
Ninad Singh LinkedIn
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As CEO of Simpson Strong-Tie, Mike Olosky leads the company with a clear vision of industry leadership through innovation and customer service. With over 20 years at Henkel, including roles as COO and Regional President, Mike's leadership, strategic investments, and embrace of technology have spurred Simpson Strong-Tie's growth amid economic challenges.
With 14 years of global experience, Mike champions a growth mindset and people-centric culture to drive industry excellence. In this episode Ninad Singh, Director at Ayna.AI interviews Mike Olosky, CEO of Simpson Strong-Tie, who underscores adaptability, customer relations, and comprehensive solutions as vital for success
Discussion Points
Simpson Strong-Tie’s from modest beginnings to a $2 billion revenue leader in structural building products with success driven by robust customer relations, adaptability, and diverse product offerings.Olosky's 14-year stint with Henkel in Asia provided valuable insights into electronic and automotive sectors and cultural diversity, shaping his leadership at Simpson Strong-Tie and fostering innovation.Simpson Strong-Tie's commitment to a growth mindset, employee training, and adoption of emerging technologies like Mass Timber and digitization are driving forces behind their market outperformance and industry-leading construction standards.The company's dedication to comprehensive customer solutions, leveraging digital tools such as CAD and software resources, positions them as pioneers in digital transformation within the construction industry.Olosky’s emphasis on the significance of a people-centric culture, citing an impactful moment in Asia that reinforced his belief in empowering teams.For More Information
Simpson Strong-Tie
Mike Oloskey LinkedIn
Book: The Titanium Economy
Ninad Singh LinkedIn
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In this engaging episode of our Titanium Economy series, we welcome David Hunt, managing director and co-head of the industrials practice at Greenhill, who shares his rich expertise in advising industrial companies, particularly in the capital goods sector. Listen in as we navigate the complex landscape of the industrial sector and its subsectors, with an emphasis on capital goods and the adoption of technology. We dissect the current macroeconomic factors, such as higher inflation and rates, and their impact on the sector. Hunt sheds light on the shift from resource hoarding during the pandemic to growth-focused strategies, especially corporate acquisitions, offering a unique insight into the sector's evolution.
Mr. Hunt joined Greenhill in 2017. He principally advises clients in the capital goods, environmental services, and industrial technology sectors. Prior to joining Greenhill, David spent 20 years at UBS where he was a Managing Director and the Head of Investment Banking for Capital Goods. He began his career at Dillon Read before it was acquired by UBS. David holds a BS in Economics from The Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania.
Discussion Points
Guest David Hunt explains how different factors shaped M&A activity have, highlighting a shift from hoarding resources during the pandemic to focusing on growth strategies, particularly corporate acquisitions.The conversation moves to the evolution of multi-industrial companies and their shift from conglomerate models to more focused niche markets, delving into the importance of differentiation, mission criticality, end-market selection and the impact on investor returns.David and Siddharth explore the landscape of M&A in the industrial sector, focusing on the components of a successful business system for a multi-industrial company.A discussion around the importance of understanding the boundaries in M&A activities, the importance of realistic valuation, and competitive landscape analysis.How industrial companies are handling the pace of technological disruption, especially with the rise of AI. The hosts discuss the importance of finding a micro niche that is the company's competitive differentiation and applying that both to organic and inorganic growth strategies.Wrapping up, David Hunt provides an optimistic outlook for the industrial sector, citing the Infrastructure Act, the Chips Act, the IRA Act, and other multi-year trends.For More Information
David Hunt LinkedIn
Greenhill
Book: The Titanium Economy
Siddharth Madhav LinkedIn
Titan International Website
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What if managing employees wasn’t a responsibility, but a privilege? What if, before efficiencies and synergies, empathy was a driving force in leadership? In this episode, Connor Bradley speaks with Bob Chapman, Chairman and CEO of Barry-Wehmiller, a leader who transformed his company with a potent mix of strategy and culture, shaping a vision that breathes life and meaning into Barry-Wehmiller team members’ existence.
Bob Chapman is widely recognized as a transformative leader from the manufacturing industry. As CEO of Barry-Wehmiller, a global supplier of manufacturing technology and services, he has grown his company through a prolifically successful acquisition strategy. Chapman's deep understanding of leadership and his unique methods have made him a bestselling author and speaker. Chapman has successfully instilled a culture of empathy and purpose within Barry-Wehmiller, solidifying his position as a revolutionary in both business and leadership.
Discussion Points
Bob Chapman has transformed Barry-Wehmiller - providing employees with meaning and launching initiatives to share culture and leadership training.How to address the "poverty of dignity" in organizations for overall well-being.Connor and Bob discuss balanced business models, culture in leadership, and empathetic listening to create leaders.Chapman shares his message of caring for others, teaching the skill of recognizing goodness, and navigating difficult decisions when culture and business conflict.A discussion around sharing strategy and culture to lead business, encouraging listeners to apply same philosophy and share blessings.For More Information
Barry-Wehmiller
Truly Human Leadership Blog
Book: Everybody Matters
Chapman & Co.
Book: The Titanium Economy
Titan International Website
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Steve shares his perspectives on Amsted's heritage, ownership culture, growth strategy, and innovation. He emphasizes employee empowerment, investing for growth, and optimizing talent and capital management for value creation.
Discussion Points
Amsted's 100% employee-owned model provides competitive advantages in strategic focus, talent acquisition, retention, and resilience through economic cycles. However, it also has its tradeoffs like any corporate organization. Business growth in Amsted’s key end markets supported by robust macro tailwinds, including data center demand and industrial electrification towards eco-friendly technologies. Amsted represents a winning example of the benefits of portfolio diversification and the conglomerate business strategy – tempering overall cyclicality and routinely beating performance benchmarks. The Amsted management paradigm is based on driving authority and accountability down to the business unit level, which includes strategic M&A ideation and execution. Successful corporate leadership boils down to finding and enabling the right people and deploying scarce capital for its most promising use. Key technologies transforming Amsted’s businesses include additive manufacturing, vision systems using AI and various elements of factory automation. Stephen Smith’s business leadership mantra is “leading by questioning” – thus enabling his management team to think independently and gaining their buy-in on key decisions. The industrials sector is often underappreciated and misunderstood, requiring greater awareness, appreciation, and encouragement for investment.For More Information
Stephen Smith LinkedIn
Amsted Industries
Book: The Titanium Economy
Titan International Website
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In this episode, host Guarav Batra, President and CEO of Ayna.AI, welcomes Christine King, the world’s first female CEO of semiconductor company Skyworks Solutions Inc.. Currently serving as Skyworks’ Lead Independent Director and Chairman of the Compensation Committee, Christine shares her thoughts about the current state of the semiconductor industry, navigating her career in a field dominated by men, and her vision and advice for those interested in a career in semiconductors as the industry evolves.
Chris King’s incredible career began when she was a 20-year-old, poor, single mother with a high school diploma and few prospects in 1970. Against all odds, she went on to become the world’s first female CEO of a semiconductor company. She rose through the ranks using her grit and focus on delivering value for multiple billion-dollar businesses like IBM, AMI Semiconductor, Standard Microsystems, and QLogic. Chris remains an active member of multinational company boards of directors and continues to compete as a champion equestrian.Discussion Points
Skyworks brand technology connects everyone everywhere and is known for empowering the wireless network revolution of “always on” connectivity.The resilience of the semiconductor industry, focusing on the ‘white space’ in the market, and maintaining innovation through the right people in the right positions, leadership, and technical talent.Leading winning teams has always meant fostering great personal relationships built on trust.The tough road as a woman leader often necessitated “competition” with male counterparts, but results and value for customers and shareholders will win every time.Attracting and nurturing talent- people want to do great things. Give recognition for accomplishments, and encourage people to advance to the highest level they can accomplish through excitement about great products and results.Advice for starting out in semiconductors - don’t be too quick to get into leadership, develop your technical skills first. Persistence pays. If you can’t go through go around.For More Information
Christine King LinkedIn
Sammons Industrial
Book: The Titanium Economy
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In this episode, host Nick Santhanam, CEO of Fernweh welcomes Darron Ash, CEO of Sammons Enterprises, Inc.. Sammons’ portfolio of companies includes businesses operating in financial services, industrial equipment, real estate investment, and infrastructure. Darron offers his views on Sammons’ long-term successes in the misunderstood industrial sector, their focus on people as their most important asset, and how they are positioned for success in the coming decades.
Headquartered in Dallas, Texas, Sammons was established in 1938. With almost $6 billion in annual revenues and over $100 billion in assets, Sammons is one of the largest privately held companies in the US. Darron Ash has been with Sammons since 2006, where he served as Chief Financial Officer for nine years prior to accepting the role of President and Chief Executive Officer. He has been a member of the Executive Committee and the Sammons Enterprises, Inc. Board since 2015. Darron joined the company with 17 years of experience in a wide variety of industries including consumer products, PE, accounting, and professional services.
Discussion Points
The Sammons value proposition centers on a long-term, partnership model of investing, without a pre-set exit plan, coupled with a strong focus on people and culture that allows for a decentralized management approach.Across the firm’s five investment verticals, the firm primarily focuses on using organic growth to scale its operating businesses, with M&A deployed strategically for adjacent and tuck-in opportunities. Sammons prioritizes discipline and patience as it relates to capital allocation and capital management strategies, particularly through today’s volatile economic era characterized by high inflation and high interest rates.Through the pandemic and its supply chain after-effects, the ability to pivot from equipment order sales to rentals enabled Sammons to drive customer value.Deploying world-class, value-added technology like mobile e-commerce and utilization management into companies, even in the start-up phase, is a key tenet of accelerating business growth and profitability.The right people, talent and culture are often the key enablers for long-run business success.For More Information
Darron Ash LinkedIn
Sammons Industrial
Book: The Titanium Economy
Titan International Website
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Paul Reitz joined Titan International, a leading global supplier of off-the-road wheel and tire products, in 2010 as CFO. Previous to Titan, Paul was Chief Accounting Officer at Carmike Cinemas, with previous roles at Yellowbook USA and Deloitte & Touche. Reitz earned an MBA in Business Administration and Marketing from the University of Iowa.
Discussion Points
Titan’s offerings are unique in a niche industry. Connecting with the specific end user is imperative. Titan takes a macro view of global and local business environments and the trends within their industries of agriculture, construction and earth moving. A major restructuring in 2019 made Titan poised and prepared for the global issues that came with the pandemic. Patience and bold decisions are key to choosing the best options for M&A synergies for Titan. Diverse perspectives from other industries are important for a Board of Directors in an industrial company like Titan. Talent acquisition and retention in the industrial sector requires identifying people who really enjoy the connection to the end users, and creating products in a manufacturing “playground” such as Titan. Driving value in an industrial company requires patience and customer connectedness.For More Information
Paul Reitz LinkedIn
Titan International Website
Book: The Titanium Economy
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Omar Asali, Chairman and CEO of Ranpak, shares his viewpoints on the increasingly transformative role of technology in the industrial space. As head of Ranpak, a global leader in environmentally sustainable, protective packaging solutions, Mr. Asali is convinced that automation, digitization, robotics, and other enabling technologies will propel his and other large-scale industrial companies to provide higher-value, compelling, efficient and sustainable solutions for their customers.
Since 1972, Ranpak’s mission has been to deliver sustainable protective packaging solutions that reduce costs, reduce environmental impact and support global business needs. Omar Asali became CEO in 2019 and has leveraged his broad industry background into the often siloed industrial sector. One of his primary focus areas is bringing the best talent and technology to Ranpak, bolstering its reputation as an innovative leader in sustainable industrial supply chain solutions. Prior to Ranpak, Mr. Asali was CEO and President of HRG Group and Vice Chairman of Spectrum Brands.
Discussion Points
The five-decade history of Ranpak highlights a consistent focus on both sustainability and automation / technology deployment.The impact of transforming internal and external systems into an updated technological mentality can be challenging, but certainly not insurmountable, in an industrial complex, where digital is “non-native”Ranpak is managing change by setting realistic timeline expectations and justifying the financial impact for customers.Focusing on the “E” of ESG is critical for the next few decades, and imperative if we are to be true stewards of our earth, its climate and the environment.Accessing talent in the Ranpak orbit includes partnering with smaller tech companies, investing strategically with VCs, along with incubating and retaining organic talent.For More Information
Omar Asali LinkedIn
Ranpak Website
Titan International Website
Book: The Titanium Economy
