What does a typical day look like for you?
I like to start my day nice and early and I’m often the first one up. I check my emails and answer anything urgent before leaving home for the office. Twice a week I take some time out for myself to attend boxing and fitness classes.
My commute to our office near Gatwick Airport is around 20 minutes. When I arrive into the office, I catch up with my colleagues and start my working day with a cup of tea, often making the first round of the day for everyone in the office.
I still remain very active in sales at Smart Aviation, working with key accounts and our loyal base of clients so phone calls and emails form a big part of my day. I have a break from the screen regularly to challenge members of the team to a game of table tennis; the competition is fierce!
What do you love about working in aviation?
I have worked in aviation since 2000. The thrill of working in this industry is like no other. I still love fixing a flight and winning a deal, the buzz of beating a competitor is great. No two days are the same – one day I could be dealing with a very high profile football team charter and the next, chartering a Citation XLS from London to Ibiza.
What is the most challenging part of your job?
The lack of available aircraft during peak months is always a challenge, yet we always come up with an option to serve all our clients. Market conditions and things like the variation in the price of fuel can also present a challenge.
What one thing do you rely on most to do your job?
Charlotte, my trusted Office Manager and longest employee. She is the backbone of the company.
What do you do when you are not working?
I visit Liverpool on a regular basis to watch my team play and often take my children or friends. Some lucky clients have also been invited in the past.
In my spare time I enjoy socialising, walking my dog Bertie and playing tennis. I’m also a dab hand in the kitchen! My signature dishes include paella, seabass with samphire and a roast dinner.
Where would you be working if you hadn’t chosen aviation?
My very first work experience was at the local fire station and I was blown away. I believe the fire service are one of the most under rated professions – the work that they do, risking their lives on a daily basis, is remarkable.
Early in my career I pursued accountancy and was 1 year away from qualifying, before deciding the far more exciting world of travel was more suited to me.
