2012 Columbus Smart Leaders: C. Bronson Jones, VP & General Manager, Banner Metals Group

C. Bronson Jones, VP & General Manager, Banner Metals Group
Give us an example of a business challenge you and/or your organization faced, as well as how you overcame it.
The terrorist attacks of 9/11 caused a significant disruption in our business. Considering the vast majority of our business was aerospace related, we needed to re-focus our market concentrations to become less dependent on a single industry.
We aggressively pursued markets that could use our core processes (metal stampings and welded assemblies) to diversify our product mix.
In what ways are you an innovative leader, and how does your organization employ innovation to be on the leading edge?
My leadership position has always been to lead by example and allow others to take their own calculated risks and learn from their mistakes.
Our organization has a very strong customer focus and encourages their involvement in product/process design in addition to employee empowerment and involvement programs.
How do you make a significant impact on the community and regional economy?
We are committed to proactive environmental policies and to purchase materials and services from local sources.
C. Bronson Jones is the vice president and general manager of Banner Metals Group