The Global Leaders in Consulting: Ron Magnus

Speaking of leadership, Magnus graduated from the U.S. Air Force Academy. Prior to joining FMI, Magnus flew fighter aircraft for 12 years for the U.S. Air Force; his distinctions include receiving the Top Gun award. 

"My personal life purpose is 'building/developing leaders of leaders.' It comes from a personal world-view of being made for a purpose beyond wanting to honor and bring glory to my creator. To do this well, I must model leadership and live the message I am teaching," he says. "Great organizations and leaders are very focused on their purpose and do not get distracted by the overwhelming options in front of them. I am so thankful that my mentors helped frame my life around a purpose that requires a push to be excellent at what I do."

The establishment of the FMI Center for Strategic Leadership is one of Magnus' proudest accomplishments. "Its impact and brand in the market place is unrivaled due to the quality of the people that work there," he says. 

This year, he transitioned the Center for Strategic Leadership to the next generation of leaders. "They are capable and ready to lead the next generation of influencers and leader developers in our market place," he says. "It is so impressive to see them take over and help us reach record levels of revenue and profit."

Magnus credits the mentors he's had in his life for his success. "They invested in my development in such deep and significant ways; and they've spent years of their lives challenging me to be focused on my work and doing it with excellence and passion."

Another factor to his success, he says, is the firm itself. "The platform FMI created, enabled the importance of effective leadership and driving a desire for growth that has become so recognized and embraced."

Finally, Magnus says he couldn't have done any of it without the love and support of his wife. "Her untiring commitment to support me in this calling has been the key in my success."

Q&A:  What does being recognized as a Global Leader in Consulting mean to you? Your firm? Your clients?

Magnus: It is always an honor to be nominated by those you work with and highlighted among your professional peers. It is not something pursued—such a great way to be acknowledged after committing over a quarter century to the profession. For FMI, it highlights the impact that this firm has had over our 65-year history in the built environment. FMI has made its mark in North America and now being recognized in the global arena is even more gratifying.