ISTAT News | 01 September 2019
Jetrader: At a Glance With Christine Rovelli
Jetrader: What do you like most about the aviation industry?
Christine Rovelli (CR): The aviation industry is the thread that runs through the micro and the macro of modern life: economics, politics, finance, society. It’s filled with interesting people who all bring something different to the issues and challenges of a highly regulated, cyclical industry, and the permutations of conditions — along with their impact on aviation — facilitate a constant dialogue with industry stakeholders that compels us to work together on initiatives such as regulation and climate change. I’m always meeting new people and engaging with the most intelligent minds on topics affecting aviation; I’ve found that ISTAT has a fantastic platform for this, and I’m excited to be able to play a part in furthering the industry’s impact through the ISTAT Foundation.
Jetrader: What is the most challenging part of your profession?
CR: Many of the same things that make the industry fun for me also make it challenging. There are numerous stakeholders and competitors as well as the financial markets, all of which act in ways that are locally rational but appear to be systemically chaotic! In finance, we don’t tend to like surprises, but, in aviation, every day brings something new. That’s what keeps the job interesting; I’m constantly refocusing and developing different skills.
Jetrader: Who has had the greatest influence on your career?
CR: The industry is full of professionals who are generous with their time and advice to those who are starting out, and I am fortunate to have benefited from the experience of many people who have influenced my career path and trajectory. In terms of choosing aviation as a career, my parents used to take me to O’Hare to watch the planes take off, back when I was very young; I remember wanting more than anything to be part of that!
Jetrader: What was your first job?
CR: I spent over 15 years on the investment banking side of the aviation industry, starting as an analyst modeling capital markets and M&A transactions for the aviation value chain — from suppliers and OEMs to airlines and airports. Eventually, I was persuaded to make the move to the operating side, and my only regret is that I didn’t do it sooner. What I enjoy most about what I do now is the ability to have an impact — on the development of my team, on the company, on the industry — which is incredibly motivating.