Tom is based in Washington, D.C., where he leads the firm’s Global Aviation Practice, focusing on strategic business decisions for aviation companies, with an emphasis on the passenger airline business. It’s a sector that’s constantly changing—a factor requiring that he stay on top of those changes and innovation.
The success of the aviation and travel business ultimately makes the world a smaller place by bringing people together and fostering a greater understanding between people of vastly different backgrounds and interests. The connections it creates and relationships it fosters are irreplaceable.
Keeping pace with change and innovation has never been relevant than it is today, he remarks, given the latest round of challenges facing aviation and travel. “I have spent over 30 years in the aviation consulting business at firms of different shapes and sizes, providing counsel to clients in good times and through wars, 9/11 attacks, recessions and now pandemics. Understanding that change occurs, shocks happen and staying positive, adapting and keeping the team focused and supported will lead to greater success,” says Tom.
His broad experience in both commercial and operational functions enables him to advise clients on how to think strategically about networks and partnerships, solve complex problems, and make impact on the customers, employees, and communities they serve. It’s an understanding and perspective that’s made him a trusted adviser and sounding board for senior executives in the industry.
Looking beyond work, his goal is to continue to travel, see the world, and learn about other cultures. Consulting is a relationship business, Tom notes, and watching the team (and individuals), both at Oliver Wyman and the client succeed, has been greatly rewarding. His advice to those considering a career in aviation consulting? “Be careful, once you are exposed to aviation, you’ll be hooked!”