Mike Kaplan

Captain
DISC Type : DS

Vice President of Business Development at D-Orbit USA

Boulder, Colorado, United States

Overview

A visionary leader in the space industry, Mike has extensive experience in business development and strategy, bridging government roles at NASA with modern "New Space" ventures. A graduate of Princeton University and George Washington University, he is described by colleagues as an "enthusiastic, " "visionary, " and "exceptional" leader who excels at building high-performing teams.

Residing in Boulder, Colorado, Mikes personal interests include hiking, travel, and photography. He is a member of the Har HaShem congregation and has spoken about how his faith connects with the curiosity and wonder inherent in exploring the universe through science and technology.

His first day at NASA headquarters coincided with the announcement that the Hubble telescopes mirror was flawed, a crisis that ultimately set him on the path to pioneer the James Webb Space Telescope.

Personality Overview

Dynamic But Sincere

Decisive But Calm

Planner & Achiever

They might take some time to make their mind up but once they do, they don't change it easily.  They are very professional in their approach and can weigh multiple perspectives together. They exhibit a rare combination of being result-oriented but patient at the same time.

Topics They Care About

NewSpace Transition
He has successfully bridged "Legacy Space" and "New Space, " and often speaks on how the industry's business fundamentals have been completely transformed.
Future of Satellites
His work centers on SmallSat platforms and LEO constellations, and he has published his thoughts on the design and capabilities of the "smallsat of the future. "
Mentoring Space Leaders
As an Adjunct Faculty member at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, he actively develops courses to train the next generation of leaders for the new space economy.

Media Appearances

Mike has no verified media appearances

Work History

Vice President of Business Development at D-Orbit USA
Adjunct Faculty at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
Principal Consultant at Kaplan Astronautics, LLC
VP - Business Development at LeoStella
Vice President of New Business Development, Defense & Space at Belcan

Education

BSE from Princeton University
MSEE from The George Washington University

More Information

Social Presence :

Prographics :

Exp : N/A Location : Boulder, Colorado, United States Job Level : Senior Designation : Vice President of Business Development at D-Orbit USA
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Insights For Selling To Mike

During A Call Or A Meeting

DO's

  • Come across as a trustworthy professional and be respectful, they usually know their game
  • Let them know of potential risks but suggest mitigation methods alongside
  • Use phrases like 'your team deserves', 'best in class' etc.

DONT's

  • Don't get into pricing discussions early on, steer conversation towards proven results
  • Don't focus too much on mutual contacts or bother about other stakeholders, focus on them
  • Don't go over them unless you are left with no other option

When Cold Calling

When Writing An Email

While Negotiating & Closing

    The secret to closing fast with Mike is

  • Strong proof of impact and their conviction will matter the most, but they wouldn't want to act unilaterally either
  • Will you ever get a clear answer from Mike

  • They will say no if they are not convinced but you will have to prompt them.

Insights For Deal Planning

    How fast (or slow) will Mike move?

  • They will want to understand things well but can move fast once they have a clear picture.
  • Can Mike take some risk or not?

  • They have good risk tolerance but are likely to think it through once or twice.

You And Mike

Personality Compatibility


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