In this conversation, the third of a four-part series on mentorship, SSPI Director of Development and Innovation Lou Zacharilla speaks with two men whose careers have taken them to the top of their respective professions at some of the industry’s largest corporations. They share with us the unique advantages and challenges of mentorship “inside a giant.”

Airbus is an international company and a leader in designing, manufacturing and delivering aerospace products. And with 133,671 employees, it certainly qualifies as a giant.

Its US Space & Defence Group is led by Chris Emerson. Chris has served as president of the group since 2019, where he oversees the operations and strategy of all its companies in the USA. He also serves as Chairman of the Board.

 Founded in 1948 by David Ogilvy, this ad agency can be found in 132 offices in 83 countries around the world. Adweeks’ Agency of the Year in 2016, Ogilvy’s client list is long and ranges from American Express to Ikea to Samsung.

Ben Levine serves as Executive Partner and Head of Global Partnerships from Ogilvy’s main office in New York. He is responsible for developing and growing strategic relations across the Ogilvy Group, its parent company WPP and external networks to find greater value for its clients. Ben also serves as Global Client Leader for the agency.

This is the third podcast of a four-part series on mentorship sponsored by

SSPI’s podcast is made possible with the support of our corporate partners