Word On The Street

The podcast version of real-time market and industry intelligence from Morrissey Goodale firm leaders.

Mark and Mick welcome Jon Kramer, CEO of OHM Advisors. The discussion covers a range of topics including OHM's growth trajectory, Kramer's personal journey from intern to CEO, the importance of culture, innovation, and AI in the architecture, engineering, and planning field. Kramer highlights OHM's recent acquisitions, strategies for managing hybrid work environments, and the importance of continuous learning and adaptability. The episode concludes with insights into Kramer's leadership philosophy and his vision for OHM Advisors' future.

 

Topics

01:04 Guest Introduction: Jon Kramer, CEO of OHM Advisors

02:35 Jon's Early Career and Intern Program

05:23 OHM's Growth and Culture

09:22 Challenges and Strategies in AE Industry

16:21 Acquisitions and Strategic Growth

21:59 Engineering vs. Architecture: A Complex Integration

22:13 Challenges of Leading a Multi-Disciplinary Firm

23:25 Personal Journey: From Engineer to CEO

24:12 Balancing Diverse Teams and Cultures

24:39 Learning from Peers and External Advisors

26:37 Daily Operations and Team Dynamics

29:15 Strategic Growth and Future Plans

30:58 Artificial Intelligence and Innovation

40:21 Leadership Advice and Reflections

43:47 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Jim Stamatis, CEO of True Environmental

Mark and Mick welcome Jim Stamatis, CEO of True Environmental. Jim shares insights from his varied career, including his professional soccer background, his leadership roles at Louis Berger, and the launch of True Environmental. He emphasizes the importance of team dynamics, culture, and adaptability in business, drawing parallels from his sports experience. Jim also discusses the rapid growth of True Environmental, the significance of trust and communication in successful integrations, and the evolving impact of technology and private equity in the environmental industry. Throughout the conversation, Jim advocates for a culture of resilience, transparency, and continuous improvement, highlighting the critical role of leadership in navigating industry challenges and opportunities.

 

Topics

00:48 Welcome to Morrissey Goodell's Podcast

01:45 Introducing Jim Stamatis and His Accomplishments

02:46 Jim's Soccer Career Highlights

05:41 Transition from Soccer to Professional Career

08:22 Building True Environmental

09:44 Lessons from Leading Louis Berger

16:40 Importance of Teamwork and Trust

21:40 Vision and Philosophy Behind True Environmental

24:14 The Story Behind True Environmental

25:03 Key Ingredients for Successful Integration

27:20 Maintaining Entrepreneurial Spirit

28:53 Successful Acquisition of Sundance Consulting

31:48 The Role of Private Equity in the Industry

32:50 Using AI in Daily Work

34:13 Growing the Next Generation of Leaders

36:29 Executing Strategic Plans

38:31 Environmental and Infrastructure Trends

44:08 Reflections on the Industry and Career

48:44 Word to the Wise: Success and Culture

Mark and Mick interview Matt Bissett, the president of Atwell, discussing his leadership experiences and strategies for navigating change. Bissett shares insights on the firm's growth from a regional to a national player, addressing challenges such as market diversification, embracing technology, and maintaining a unified company culture amidst rapid expansion. With in-depth discussions on acquisitions, employee development programs like Top Gun, and the impact of financial crises like the 2008 downturn, this episode offers a comprehensive look at leading an engineering and consulting firm through dynamic industry landscapes.

 

Topics

01:36 Introducing the Special Guest: Matt Bissett

03:24 Matt Bissett's Leadership Journey at Atwell

05:19 Navigating Challenges and Embracing Change

11:33 The Impact of Technology and AI on the Industry

13:54 Matt Bissett: The Renaissance Man

14:56 The Art of Acquisitions and Integrations

22:16 Maintaining Positive Energy and Client Engagement

24:12 Maximizing Influence and Leadership

24:33 Top Gun Program and Rodney Williams

28:38 Challenges and Culture at Atwell

32:12 Virtual Reality and Connectivity

39:36 Diversification and Resilience

43:59 Lessons from Sports and Decision Making