Larry Smith
About Larry Smith
Larry Smith is the IPT Lead for Product, Process, and Tooling Development at QuEST Global in East Hartford, CT, with a background in product development leadership at BAE Systems and an MBA in Global Management from the University of Phoenix.
Current Position at QuEST Global
Larry Smith currently works at QuEST Global as an IPT Lead for Product, Process, and Tooling Development in East Hartford, CT. In this role, he focuses on leading forecasting, schedule development, and risk mitigation efforts by benchmarking historical project data. He collaborates with various stakeholders and ensures that development processes are efficient and effective.
Previous Experience at BAE Systems
Prior to his current role, Larry Smith spent 32 years at BAE Systems in Greater Minneapolis-St. Paul Area. Throughout his career at BAE Systems, he served as an IPT Leader for Product Development. His tenure, starting in 1979 and lasting until 2011, involved significant responsibilities such as initiating and developing a Product Development Council involving stakeholders from various business areas to review new and existing product development.
Educational Background in Global Management
Larry Smith holds an MBA in Global Management from the University of Phoenix. He pursued this degree from 2001 to 2003. This educational background has equipped him with a comprehensive understanding of global business practices, crucial for his roles in product and process development. His education has also provided him with skills necessary for strategic planning, leadership, and effective communication in a global business environment.
Initiatives and Leadership Approach
During his career, Larry Smith has initiated and led several key initiatives, such as the Product Development Council, which includes stakeholders from all business areas. He has been instrumental in initiating supplier development, supplier stocking programs, raw material planning, and raw asset management. Smith has created partnerships and strategic alliances to standardize materials where possible. He champions a sense of urgency in customer relationship building to strengthen and address weaknesses effectively.
Team Leadership and Development
Larry Smith places a high priority on hiring, training, and retaining skilled personnel. He leads his teams by creating a safe and satisfying work environment. His leadership approach involves empowering his team members, fostering a collaborative atmosphere, and ensuring that the workplace supports professional growth and satisfaction. This approach has been central to his roles at both QuEST Global and BAE Systems.