Meet Steven, the Director of Operations at Magnetic Line. Constantly on the move between Magnetic Line stations, Steven can be described as a real people person. Steven’s role isn’t just about managing the stations’ operations; it’s about fostering relationships and building trust among his diverse teams, scattered across the globe.
What brought him to aviation, what does he enjoy most about his work and what are some surprising facts about him? It’s a pleasure to bring Steven into the spotlight in this article!
Let’s start from the beginning – how did you get into aviation?
Aviation and I crossed paths quite early on. Having been interested in aviation since my youth, I joined the Air Traning Corps when I was a thirteen-year-old boy, in North Wales. It’s like the Boy Scouts but with a focus on aviation. Later, when I was seventeen, I joined the Royal Air Force as an aircraft electrical technician. Aviation pulls you in, I’ve been in the industry since then.
How did you come to join Magnetic Line?
This is my second time around with Magnetic Line. During my first term with the company, from August 2019 to January 2022, I supported the management team during the pandemic as well as setting up the UPS operation in CGN and the opening of various stations in Germany.
I rejoined Magnetic Line in October 2023, this time in the position of Director of Operations.
Tell the readers about your role in the company – what are the most rewarding aspects of the role?
In my position as Director of Operations, I am responsible for the day-to-day management of the Operations department. This is not something I do on my own, I have a great team of colleagues who support me. We operate 14 line stations in East Africa and Europe, with the stations being located quite far from each other. I’ve been fortunate to visit almost half of the stations over the last 5 months. I’m looking forward to visiting the other stations soon. Luckily, I enjoy traveling.
The most rewarding aspect of this role is the interaction with our colleagues at the various stations throughout the network, helping to build a stable future for everyone. I enjoy working and communicating with my team members, whether it’s with an Engineer I have known for 25 years, or with a mechanic I’ve just met. Getting to know each other is the best way to build trust. And trust is the basis for working together.
Given the dynamic nature of the aviation sector, what trends or developments do you anticipate in the coming 5 to 10 years?
A very interesting question. As mentioned, the aviation sector is very dynamic, we are always evaluating the market and amending our strategy accordingly. I think it is fair to say that the current global shortage of qualified engineers is a trend that will continue to affect us for the foreseeable future.
The replacement of older aircraft with newer, more efficient aircraft types, such as the A350 & Boeing 787 will continue, although some operators will still operate the older aircraft such as the Boeing 747, 767 & 757. The lack of new aircraft on the market is also delaying this process.
We will continue to train our staff on new aircraft types, and we will continue supporting the older aircraft types. As a maintenance provider, we must adapt to meet each airline’s needs.
What advice would you give to someone thinking about a career in aviation?
The aviation industry is a fantastic place to work in, but it is also addictive. Once you have experienced working in aviation, it’s difficult to go back to a “normal” job. I cannot imagine doing anything else.
There are several ways of describing the aviation industry: exciting, growing, passion-driven… Everyone has their own way of explaining why they enjoy working in this industry, and what is special to them. Anyone joining the industry should look forward to finding out what makes it special for them. One thing is certain – accept the fact that you will have a lifetime of learning ahead of you and be willing to adapt to change.
What are your top destinations to travel to?
Florida and Palma de Mallorca. Sorry to say it’s not for the food, culture, or wonderful buildings, but it’s rather because I very much enjoy playing golf at these places. Although, red wine is also a good reason behind visiting Palma de Mallorca.
As a final question, what is something surprising about you that many people do not know?
Originally from Great Britain, I’ve been living in Germany for 40 years. Also, I truly enjoy traveling in my “cabin” – I have a pick-up truck with a cabin on the flatbed behind it. For me, it’s a way of traveling to places that are more remote and not full of tourists.