“Our company runs on the words of the great Bill Belichick – JUST DO YOUR JOB.”
~ Bruce Platzman, CEO/President AIS
BOS talked to the President of global furniture manufacturer AIS to find out what it takes to be successful in the workspace industry.
Use the toggles below to uncover answers as quick, lean, and relevant as the manufacturing led by CEO Bruce Platzman…
List three words that best describe AIS?
- Passion.
- Driven to Success.
- Strategic.
Name the single biggest challenge in the workspace industry today.
Attracting top young talent. This is a universal problem for our industry.
What is the single biggest opportunity?
Corporate America is re-stacking. Organizations are looking to upgrade and update their workspaces to leverage modern trends and keep their teams engaged.
What is one thing most people do not know about AIS?
One of my proudest moments as a CEO was immediately after 9/11 when the Pentagon requested assistance with almost 2500 workstations in an offsite location following the attack. Thirty manufacturers were ready to respond to the request until a Navy Commander communicated that due to systems being down, there would be no PO, no drawings and no files of any kind. AIS was the only manufacturer that did not back away from the project. We started shipping product on the 14th and everyone was working 12 hour shifts, 7 days a week to get the job done in one month. There was a lot of patriotism in our facility and it really embodied the attitude we take to every job – “let’s figure out a way to get the job done”.
What are three things to look for in 2016?
- Sit-to-Stand will continue to become more prevalent.
- Simpler Seating – Chairs that are still ergonomic but easy and approachable for people to use.
- The Re-Emergence of Panels – While not for everyone, we believe panels will be used creatively in modern workspaces.
…and one thing I’m sure of… The Patriots will win the Superbowl again.
What is the one book everyone in our industry should read?
While I find most business books about as interesting as text books, I insist that everyone who works for me reads the book ‘Raving Fans’ by Ken Blanchard and Sheldon Bowles.
It’s easy to read and only takes about 90 minutes to get through. You’ll love it!
What is the coolest workspace technology on the market today?
The smart sit-stand desks are really cool – Personalized. Very automated. Lots of built-in features.
List the critical aspects considered when making great office furnishings.
- Price
- Understand the Competition
- Lean and Efficient
- Delivery and Lead Time
- Options and Flexibility
- Relevancy
- Delivering on Promises – This is how we define ourselves at AIS.
If someone is considering making a career in this industry, what do they need to know?
The first thing I would tell them is to go see a psychologist! But all kidding aside, I have spent my entire professional career in the furniture industry… and I have enjoyed most of it. As far as advice goes, prepare to work very hard. No one in this industry makes it working 40 hours a week. Working hard will not guarantee success, but it is necessary. You also need to be strategic. Understand how to work in a commodity-driven field, but also be creative to set yourself apart. Passion is also very important. Engulf your entire professional well-being and psyche around the industry. Finally, remember the virtue of patience, especially at the dealer level. Leads take time to develop and being successful will take both patience and persistence.
AIS Media
Enjoy photos and videos taken by BOS while touring AIS facilities in Massachusetts
About the Expert
Bruce Platzman, AIS, CEO/President
An industry veteran for over 25 years, Bruce first worked in the furniture industry as a salesperson for Steelcase, later becoming General Manager of that same dealership. As Co-Founder of AIS in 1989, Bruce has led the company in a successful transition from a leading re-manufacturer, to a premier new manufacturer. From cost control, to production, to product development, to sales and marketing, Bruce’s hands-on management exemplifies the AIS team approach to leadership.
