Tony O’Neill welcomes Alex Adema to discuss his incredible journey navigating the outdoor industry from the Snowsports side as the CEO of DPS Skis. From the challenges of financial sustainability to the resilience shown during the difficulty of a notoriously seasonal snowsports business.
Alex’s story is one of adaptability and determination. They discuss the impact of: seasonal manufacturing, the Kickstarter campaign to launch the disruptive Phantom Glide ski treatment, DPS Skis’s brilliant culture, doing business in Utah, and their innovative solution of producing medical face shields by partnering with other outdoor industry brands during the lockdowns.
Join us as we delve into Alex’s experiences, lessons learned, and the importance of transparency, community engagement, and embracing change in pursuing success.
00:00 How to get a job in the Outdoor Industry 00:55 Katie’s path into the Outdoor Industry 07:19 How to align your passion to your career in the Outdoor Industry 12:28 Misconceptions about breaking into the Outdoor Industry 14:29 Making one of the most important life decisions 27:08 Internal goal vocalization and networking to land your dream job 28:17 The Outdoor Industry Job Market is Highly Competitive
00:46 Alex’s path into the Outdoor Industry
04:08 Overcoming Pandemic Hurdles
06:46 Leveraging Kickstarter to develop and launch a disruptive ski product called Phantom
10:14 Building out a 20,000 sq ft manufacturing facility in SLC
14:23 Building Culture at DPS Ski
15:59 Powder days at DPS Skis
19:36 Outdoor industry community DPS Skis, Petzel, and Goal Zero
40:25 Alex’s advice on getting into the Outdoor Industry
Key Takeaways:
1. Understanding the Outdoor Industry Job Market:
– The outdoor industry has unique dynamics, including its seasonality, cyclical nature, and reliance on consumer trends.
– Knowing the market trends and demands, such as the shift towards sustainable and eco-friendly products, can give you a competitive edge.
2. Importance of Networking and Building Relationships:
– The outdoor industry heavily relies on relationships, so networking is crucial for career growth.
– Attend industry trade shows, conferences, and events, and connect with professionals through online platforms like LinkedIn.
– Building genuine relationships can lead to job opportunities and potential executive search recommendations.
3. Tailoring Your Skills and Experience:
– Highlight your relevant skills and experiences that align with the outdoor industry values and needs.
– Show how your background contributes to the industry, whether it’s through marketing, sales, product development, or sustainability initiatives.
– Emphasize your passion for outdoor activities to demonstrate your alignment with the industry’s culture.
4. Leveraging Executive Search:
– Executive search firms play a significant role in connecting industry professionals with job opportunities.
– Partnering with reputable search firms that specialize in the outdoor industry can increase your chances of finding the right executive position.
– Be open and transparent about your goals, values, and aspirations to help search consultants match you with suitable opportunities.
5. Developing a Strong Personal Brand:
– Cultivate a unique personal brand that showcases your expertise, values, and accomplishments.
– Establish yourself as a thought leader by leveraging social media platforms, publishing articles, and participating in speaking engagements.
– A strong personal brand can help elevate your profile within the industry and attract executive search recruiters.
6. Continual Learning and Professional Development:
– Stay ahead in the outdoor industry by continuously learning and honing your skills.
– Seek out industry-specific certifications, attend workshops, and join professional associations related to the outdoor industry.
– Demonstrating a commitment to professional growth makes you a valuable asset in executive search efforts.
Conclusion:
Navigating the outdoor industry job market and succeeding in executive search requires a strategic approach, active networking, and a strong personal brand. By understanding the industry’s dynamics and adapting your skills to fit its evolving needs, you can position yourself as a desirable candidate for executive-level positions. Remember, networking, continual learning, and a passion for the outdoors are essential elements to achieve career success in the outdoor industry.
Keywords: Outdoor Industry, Recruiter, Executive Search, Job Market, Networking, Skills, Personal Brand, Professional Development, Sustainability, Industry Trends.