Aerodrome New General Manager

Do you have a background in Aviation?

I undertook fantastic Airframe & Engine apprenticeship at the Royal Naval Aircraft Yard Fleetlands. This was the foundations for a career in aviation that has taken me across the planet and introduced me to many great people. I can say with absolute conviction that I wouldn’t be the person I am today if it was not for the life I have had within aviation.

I was once told that many people join the aviation community during their career but very few leave it. I certainly believe this to be the true. After several years working as a sub-contract engineer my career path took me back to Fleetlands where I progressed from technician through supervisor and management to leadership positions of large aviation businesses.

Where did your interest in Aviation come from?

Both my grandfather's enjoyed careers in the RAF and the subsequent stories that were part of my formative years. My Pappy was also a fine carpenter and I remember vividly making an aeroplane in his workshop one Saturday morning. My contribution was a couple of scrappy pieces of wood nailed together, my grandfather’s a perfectly carved propeller spinning on the front. I was very proud and took credit for the whole thing!

Do you fly?

I don’t hold any type of flying licence but have some experience at the controls of light aircraft, gliders and helicopters. At this point I have no plans to pursue a flying licence, the strongest reason being that my role as General Manager requires a focussed and objective mind set to oversee the complete aviation operation at Goodwood.

What has been your most enjoyable job to date?

My most enjoyable job up until now was without doubt when I was charged with building a team capable of flight testing post depth maintenance Lynx aircraft to meet a steep increase in throughput. The cut and thrust of dynamic testing military aircraft in balance with commercial pressures and commitments was an all-consuming experience and full of great stories and successes.

What is it that appealed about becoming the Aerodrome GM?

After working in a large international corporate organisation for some years this role has met all of the objectives I set myself when deciding to change companies. Having the autonomy to develop and deliver strategic direction to the aviation business within a company that is bursting with innovation and excellence is a major draw. The GM role is the leadership position I have been working towards since completing my apprenticeship.

Tell us something about yourself that isn’t work related.

I like being active and my hobbies are generally anything that takes me outside - golf, football, cycling (on and off) road and squash and when time permits; I enjoy watching most sports.

The day starts walking our Border Collie (Blue). My wife Sarah and four daughters, Bethany, Mollie, Chloe and Alyssa, are my biggest motivation and (most of the time!) my biggest fans. We are a very close family and enjoy spending a lot of time together. We are all looking forward to some fantastic days at the Goodwood events.