Guys,
dont shoot me down here but....
Hawkeye, you mention that a few years ago they promoted CSM/CSS's not necessarily on merit or flying experiance but for more cultural reasons.
If you have been flying for a few years do you not think that you are basically experianced enough to carry out either job? Someone who has been flying for say, 5years, is probably experianced enough in my mind to carry out the task of a CSS. To be honest, i also think that some could do the role of CSM as well.
I have worked with plenty of CSM's who have alot of years in QF (25-30yrs)and have been some of the worst managers i worked under. Not to say all of them are though.
Dont take this post as an attack - i just dont think that it should always be a job where someone with many years flying should be eligable to bid up to these positions.