I have experience with retired military officers as managers in non-military positions, and I find the depth of the generalizations being bandied about here to be fundamentally careless.
I have worked with pussy-cat retired military managers, and fire-brand retired military managers, just as I have with both types with managers who have never donned a uniform.
Now if Solms thinks that Wave needs some arse kicking then one could imagine him focusing on some of his military connections for possible recruits. Or not. He (Solms) certainly didn't just leave the military, and has private sector experience as indicated by his resume, so one could imagine he has become familiar with norms and customs in private sector technical companies. Or not.
Again, i don't seek to defend (or attack) the hiring other than to express my unease with increasing costs. I believe actions like this require significant new business ... soon. Given that a COO type position likely goes across the BoDs desk, presumably the notion has been vetted. BICBW. CEOs are given latitude, the job title seems an effort to squeak under the COO designation, and in the case of edge-of-the-cliff turnarounds, perhaps it is best to hire a guy and then let them call the shots.
It should be good fun watching in any event. Solms' behavior certainly broadcasts confidence, which when coupled with a few bucks can get a person a decent cup of coffee.
The above content is my opinion.
