Chris Smith is the founder of Staff On Side Corporate Engagement, an Airline Captain and Manager, a Senior Lecturer and aviation Counsellor. After a lifetime in the aviation industry in a variety of senior managerial positions, Chris is now dedicated to working with companies, organisations, and individuals on matters of leadership and mental health, with a particular focus on staff engagement and manager - staff relations, as well as lecturing, counselling, and writing. He has established and operates peer support programs in Australia, New Zealand, Japan, Singapore and Vietnam, and consults in Ireland and Germany, and currently holds an Ambassadorial Role for the ‘Trust’ Peer Support Program across Australia and Asia. Chris is a regular corporate speaker on the psychology, mental health, safety, and legal and aviation conference circuit in Australia and overseas (Singapore, Japan, France, USA). He also presents regularly on radio and is a contributing writer on mental health matters for the Sunday Mail Newspaper. In 2012, he was awarded the Master Air Pilot Certificate by the Guild of Air Pilots and Navigators, London, for services to the aviation industry. Chris holds a Master’s Degree in Aviation Management, a Diploma of Counselling and has PhD research conducted with the University of Southern Queensland, where he presently lectures.
'The first thing: do nothing. Then: clear the decks for a couple of days and read this book from cover to cover. Wherever you sit in your organisation - Captain, First Officer or Passenger - Chris Smith will open your eyes to what is really going on. Part aviation adventure, part leadership masterclass, what Chris has seen and experienced cannot be ignored. This is the one flight you can't afford to miss. Only one question remains: who will you lend your executive parking space to while you're away?' - Spencer Howson, Broadcaster, Lecturer, Trainer, Advisor 'Chris Smith provides a long overdue, aspirational take on leadership, based on his extraordinary experience as a commercial pilot. He is completely committed to leading in a respectful, considered and meaningful way by deep engagement with your people. A fabulous book at a time when it is truly needed.' - Andrew Griffiths, International Bestselling Business Author, 14 books sold in 65 countries 'This book teaches us what is important not only as leaders but also as human beings. It tells us that respect for the resilience of others and a sincere interest in people are qualities that are required of leaders, not just pilots. This is an excellent book that guides the readers through the message learned from Chris's own experiences in an easy-to-understand way.' - Keiko Nakahama, Ph.D., Aviation Peer Support Education Specialist, Tokyo, Japan 'Mental welfare for pilots is now focused upon in Japan. Capt. Chris developed the first Peer Support Program in Japan in 2017. He is the pioneer. His experience and knowledge is one of the key factors for safety in aviation. We will always seek his help.' - Captain Naohiro Usui, Chief Coordinator of ALPA Japan Pilot Assistance System and NCA Peer Support and Education Program 'This book is a delightful invitation to emerging leaders seeking to embrace their unique styles and develop a sense of duty towards others. Chris' insights are invaluable, highlighting the transformative nature of leadership and empowering readers to lead authentically with strength, compassion and purpose. Prepare for a journey that will reshape your understanding of leadership and its profound impact on those under your guidance.' - Elita Huynh, Innovation Manager, Thales Australia 'Leadership at 43,000 Feet taps into the essence of what it means to lead with authenticity, humility, understanding and courage. It transcends the confines of the cockpit, reaching into the hearts and minds of leaders across all walks of life. As you embark on this journey through the pages ahead, may you find inspiration to soar to new heights in your own leadership and, more importantly, in your journey as a fellow human being.' - Dean Salter, Former CEO, Jetstar Airways 'I am sure you will thoroughly enjoy reading this book, as Chris shares with you many of his experiences during his wonderful career, not just in aviation but also his life in general. Leadership lessons on the flight deck can be applied to many situations in both business and our personal lives.' - Captain James Mitchell, Evidence-based Training Programme Manager, Jetstar Airways