CEO Insights Magazine

At the heart of every thriving business is a strategic mind ensuring seamless operations and unwavering progress. Enter the Chief Operating Officer (COO), the maestro orchestrating the daily rhythm of the company, weaving together efficiency, innovation, and growth. As a key role player, a COO navigates the intricate maze of challenges, from optimizing processes to stewarding resources, all while keeping a steadfast eye on the horizon of success and sustainability. One such leader is Franz Stefan Pruckner, COO of Ticket To The Moon, an Austrian resident of Bali since 2014.

With deep roots in the outdoor/lifestyle industry, Franz Stefan brings a wealth of experience to his role as operational director and co-owner of Ticket to the Moon. His extensive expertise spans across diverse areas including manufacturing, distribution, sales, and marketing of outdoor products. Additionally, Franz Stefan possesses a keen understanding of material science, product development, environmental management, sustainability practices, and entrepreneurship, making him an invaluable asset in steering Ticket To The Moon towards continued success and innovation. Let’s dive into this one-on-one interaction with Franz Stefan Pruckner and know more about him.

Could you provide a concise overview of your career path and what drives your day-to-day activities?

In my decade-long journey in Indonesia, I've immersed myself in diverse business facets, spanning manufacturing, sales, marketing, operations, and supply management. The daily inspiration driving me forward is the remarkable growth we've achieved, expanding our team from 50 to 300 individuals. My passion lies in innovating products that not only meet our business needs but also forge a profound connection with our customer base, whom we consider our 'tribe'. This commitment to innovation and organic team growth has been pivotal in our success story, propelling both individual and collective achievements in the dynamic business landscape of Indonesia.

Describe Ticket To The Moon as a company and its market positioning.

Ticket To The Moon is synonymous with top-tier products crafted with user needs in mind. Our organization is dedicated to pioneering inventive solutions drawn from firsthand user experiences. We occupy a distinctive niche in the market by actively involving our community of customers and delivering WFTO certified merchandise that focuses on outdoor products, ensuring satisfaction and spreading joy through our team's beaming smiles.

As the COO, what factors do you consider when molding the company's policies?

In shaping the company's policies, I prioritize employee morale, project ownership, and navigating the complex supply chains in Indonesia. Emphasizing adaptability and continuous improvement, my focus is on ensuring that our policies align with the company's commitment to excellence, sustainability, and employee well-being. By fostering a culture that values these principles, we not only enhance operational efficiency but also create an environment where employees are motivated, engaged, and aligned with the company's overarching goals. This strategic approach not only addresses immediate challenges but also positions the company for sustained success in the ever-evolving business landscape.

How do you guide employees to meet the company’s goals and how do you measure their progress?

As a leader, my approach revolves around cultivating a culture of ownership and self-motivation among employees, empowering them to take charge of their projects. The assessment of progress involves key metrics such as the efficient execution of projects, individual employee development aligned with company growth, and our ability to innovate and respond to market demands. By promoting autonomy and accountability, each team member becomes a crucial contributor to our collective success. This strategy not only fosters a sense of responsibility but also ensures that both personal and organizational objectives advance in tandem. Through this dynamic leadership style, we foster a work environment where employees are not just contributors but active stakeholders in the overall success of the team and the organization.

What are the primary hurdles you face in your position, and how do you cultivate favorable results?

Thriving amidst supply chain disruptions and the dynamic regulatory environment in Indonesia demands a resilient approach. My guiding principle, encapsulated in the mantra 'flow like water,' underscores the importance of continuous improvement and flexibility. Successfully overcoming challenges requires an adaptive mindset and a commitment to refining strategies. By embracing change and consistently seeking innovative solutions, we can navigate obstacles effectively and drive positive outcomes in the face of adversity. This proactive and fluid approach not only enables resilience but also positions us to thrive in the ever-evolving business landscape, ensuring sustained success despite external uncertainties.

Share your leadership style. What principles or strategies guide your actions as a leader?

My leadership philosophy centers on fostering independence and problem-solving skills within my team, akin to the adage of teaching them how to 'use the rod to catch their own fish'. I advocate for a culture where each individual comprehends the symbiotic relationship between their personal development and the company's advancement. This involves empowering team members to take ownership of their responsibilities and decisions, fostering a sense of accountability and self-reliance. By providing guidance and support while allowing room for autonomy, I strive to cultivate a dynamic environment where innovation thrives and individuals are motivated to contribute their best. Ultimately, my goal is to instill in my team a sense of ownership over their work and a commitment to collective success, driving both individual growth and organizational excellence.

Where do you envision your journey leading?

In our pursuit of sustainability, we prioritize achieving a harmonious balance between biodegradable, recycled or upcycled, and nature-derived materials in our product development over the next few years. By blending these elements thoughtfully, we aim to reduce environmental impact while delivering high-quality goods. Moreover, we are committed to enhancing the outdoor experience for our customers. This involves not only the creation of durable and eco-friendly products but also an ambitious transition towards solar-powered manufacturing.

Through harnessing renewable energy sources, we seek to minimize our carbon footprint and contribute to a cleaner planet. Simultaneously, we are dedicated to minimizing waste generation throughout our production processes and by partnering up with local companies to create a circular economy. Our holistic approach reflects a commitment to responsible business practices, ensuring that sustainability is ingrained in every aspect of our operations to create a positive impact on both consumers and the environment.

Franz Stefan Pruckner, COO, Ticket To The Moon

Franz Stefan Pruckner, COO of Ticket To The Moon, is an Austrian who has resided in Bali since 2014. He boasts extensive experience in the outdoor/lifestyle sector, having served as Co-owner and Operational Director of the company. His expertise encompasses various domains including manufacturing, distribution, sales, and marketing of outdoor products, along with proficiency in material science, product development, environmental management, sustainability, and entrepreneurship.

•Hobbies: I enjoy discovering new places, rock climbing, traveling, and engaging in various sports •Favorite Cuisine: Asian cuisine  •Favorite Book: There are too many good ones to single out a favorite •Favorite Travel Destination: The Indonesian archipelago •Awards & Recognition: ISPO Award Gold Winner - Outstanding Outdoor for the Ticket to the Moon Lightest Hammock. ISPO Award