24/7 AOG Critical Response
Hotline
UK +44 1403 798888US +1 877 780 2008
Our award winning global AOG service is manned 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
Please call +44 1403 798888 or email aog@ajw-group.com.
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24/7 AOG Critical Response
HotlineUK +44 1403 798888US +1 877 780 2008
Our award winning global AOG service is manned 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
Please call +44 1403 798888 or email aog@ajw-group.com.
AJW CUSTOMER ACCOUNT
Existing AJW customers can benefit from a secure online account, giving instant access to the real-time information you need, when you need it most.
Our executives set the strategy and direction for AJW Group and are led by Chairman, Christopher Whiteside. The Board is responsible for AJW Group strategy, financials, growth, and diversification. The C-suite is the strategic layer of leadership, taking the Group forward as directed by the Board. The Senior Leadership Team uses its expertise to deliver the operational plans, driving efficiency and value throughout the company - helping the Group transform aviation efficiency.
Click/tap on the profile images below to learn more.
Christopher Whiteside
Chairman
Clyde Buntrock
Chief Executive Officer AJW Aviation & Technique
Craig Macpherson
Chief Information Officer AJW Aviation
Christopher Whiteside
Chairman
As Chairman and CEO of AJW Group, Christopher is responsible for the strategic direction of the AJW Group. Under his visionary leadership AJW has grown from a company employing 15 people (when he took it over aged 25), to a Group boasting over 500 aviation professionals across Africa, Asia Pacific, China, CIS, Europe, Latin America, Middle East and North America.
AJW is recognised globally as the world-leading independent specialist in the supply of integrated aircraft support services for commercial and business aircraft. The Group's ambition and pioneering spirit, however, does not stop there as it looks beyond aviation to seize opportunities which play to the business' strengths.
A lifelong aviation business professional and entrepreneur, Chistopher is committed to developing engineering excellence throughout the aviation MRO industry. With a passion for travel, culture and time pieces, Christopher has lived in three continents and has a truly global perspective on business. He acquired and built up AJW Technique in Canada and built strong relationships in new and emerging markets.
Since 2009, Christopher has held a private pilot's licence.
Clyde Buntrock
Chief Executive Officer AJW Aviation & Technique
Clyde joined AJW Group as Chief Executive Officer of AJW Aviation in 2022, bringing a wealth of global knowledge gained during his lifelong career in logistics. In 2023 his position expanded to the role of CEO of both AJW Aviation and AJW Technique.
After completing his studies at university, he began his career in logistics, acquiring hands-on experience in all aspects of logistics, freight, and supply chain. This led him to his most recent role as CEO of EV Cargo, a supply chain solution and technology business. Now bringing his expertise to AJW, he shares the Group’s passion for driving digital transformation to ensure aviation efficiency. Clyde is no stranger to aviation, with his former company moving airfreight cargo on almost every air corridor around the world.
He is a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport and is focused on aligning key strategic initiatives with financial planning to achieve business success and growth. Clyde believes that building collaborative teams, nurturing talent, and creating a positive culture are keys to success, not only within the Group but with its partners as well.
Before moving to West Sussex with his family, Clyde lived in Twickenham where he fulfilled his passion for rugby and followed his favourite team, the Harlequins. As a qualified rugby coach and former back row player, being within walking distance of Harlequin’s games at the Stoop and Twickenham Stadiums was a pleasure.
When not solving logistical issues and watching rugby, Clyde enjoys the countryside with his wife and sons.
Craig Macpherson
Chief Information Officer AJW Aviation
Bringing the experience of a lifelong career in IT, Craig joined AJW Aviation as Chief Information Officer in February 2023, to further advance its digital transformation.
He is an internationally experienced, commercially focused CIO, with a proven track record of success in transforming and leading multi-disciplinary IT organisations to achieve outstanding results and performance levels. Craig is recognised as a strong business partner, with significant experience in delivering IT strategies, organisational transition, and business-changing digital products and services. He is also adept at leading large-scale transformation programmes that enable data-led decision-making, which result in a step change in an organisation’s growth, and financial and operational performance.
He has a wealth of experience across a diverse range of business sectors. Companies that have benefitted from his expertise include the Department of Health and Social Care, Menzies Distribution, Fujitsu, BSI, Etihad Airways, GTA Travel, and CHEP.
Craig is married with grown-up children and two granddaughters. Outside of work he enjoys travelling with his wife and exploring new destinations both at home and abroad. A self-confessed petrol-head, he has a passion for all things automotive and all forms of motorsport.
Craig.Macpherson@ajw-group.com
Jane Hossack
Chief People Officer
Scott Symington
Chief Commercial Officer
Agne Noden
Director of Business Development
Andy Colbran
Director of Customer Services
Jane Hossack
Chief People Officer
Jane Hossack, Chief People Officer, is responsible for the People strategy, along with the goals of attracting the best candidates to AJW Group, motivating our workforce, and retaining the talented people who work here. With the support of the Executive and People teams, she creates a safe, fun culture in which people enjoy their work, and an environment that supports high performance and inspires people to develop their careers within the business.
Jane started her career in HR advisory and recruitment roles, as well as completing project-based roles in areas such as talent management and training. Prior to joining AJW, she was Head of HR at a privately owned aviation broker based at Gatwick Airport. Here she was responsible for the people strategy as well as setting up the people departments in various countries; her role involved travel and cultural immersion.
Jane studied HR management at university and achieved her MCIPD (Member of the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development) qualification thereafter.
Outside of work, Jane enjoys spending time with her wife, family, and friends. One of her biggest passions is to travel and if she can hop on a plane to visit a new city or country, she always takes the opportunity. Jane is fascinated by diverse cultures, and she likes to learn about and respect people’s differences. She enjoys cooking and eating out, going on long country walks, watching films and series, and going to the theatre.
Scott Symington
Chief Commercial Officer
Scott is a senior aviation executive who joined AJW Group as Chief Commercial Officer (CCO) in 2023 bringing 30 years of experience across the leasing, airline, OEM, and MRO sectors and has achieved an Executive MBA with Distinction.
He is responsible for driving the strategic sales plan across the AJW portfolio business lines and works hand in hand with other members of the Executive team and key leaders across the organisation to develop and implement an integrated commercial strategy.
Prior to joining AJW, Scott led the commercial, sales and marketing functions of a Dublin based aircraft lessor. Having developed the commercial team and built the platform to manage an 80 aircraft portfolio, Scott is committed to AJW’s mission to transform aviation efficiency. Starting his aviation career straight from school as an apprentice aircraft fitter at BAE SYSTEMS, he made quick progress at the company, becoming a licensed aircraft maintenance engineer, and then transferring to Toulouse to join technical support before moving into commercial roles. After 20 years at BAE, he moved to Athens to initiate Europe’s biggest ever start-up airline, Olympic Air, where he negotiated multiple aircraft leases, PBH and support contracts as well as starting the third-party MRO business. After, he relocated back to Scotland to set up and implement the aircraft leasing support strategy for the company which is now Collins Aerospace.
Outside of work, Scott loves to travel and is a passionate supporter of his national rugby team, attending all home games at Murrayfield and he can also be found at Scotstoun supporting the Glasgow Warriors.
Agne Noden
Director of Business Development
Agne is AJW Group’s Director of Business Development. She is responsible for our business development strategy which oversees AJW products and services and is powered by market analytics, collaboration with various product lines and business functions, digital transformation, and most important of all, our international business development team. Agne is passionate about strategic product development stemming from understanding behavioural changes in the market and continuously evolving customer needs.
The business development team is a dynamic, multicultural, solution-driven team with customer experience in mind every step of the way. The team’s mission is to nurture relationships with key customers to harvest and maximise the opportunities arising from our global marketplace.
After joining AJW in 2013, Agne worked on multiple strategic product development projects in commercial, business, and military aviation, actively exploring routes to new markets.
Agne holds a bachelor's degree from Vilnius Gediminas Technical University in Lithuania (her home country) and a master's degree from Brno University of Technology in Czech Republic.
Andy Colbran
Director of Customer Services
Andy has been with AJW for over 30 years. With a background in industrial sales, he has been involved in spare parts sales, customer service, and purchasing during his time with the company. Andy is now responsible for all customer service activities related to the company's Part Sales & Support business.
Barry Swift
Senior Vice President Operations
Becky Newell
Director of Marketing
Clare Brown
Finance Director
David Miret Mora
Technical Director
Barry Swift
Senior Vice President Operations
As Senior Vice President Operations, Barry leads on strategic improvements to Group operations. He oversees procurement, MRO management, technical/quality, warehouse and logistics, and strategic progress around an integrated supply chain methodology; this includes driving transformation to ensure the business delivers the highest levels of performance and customer satisfaction.
Barry’s career started in military avionics and has extensive experience in both engineering and supply chain management across many different industrial sectors, including automotive, fast moving consumer goods, capital equipment, defence, and aviation. Barry has a first-class honours degree in manufacturing engineering, a master's degree in integrated engineering and is a fully-fledged member of the Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply. He held multiple engineering positions during his 14 years with Ford Motor Company, became Supply Chain Manager for Delphi Diesel System’s HD business unit, Head of Procurement at Dyson, Operations Director within the Halma Group. Prior to his role at AJW, was the Director of Procurement at Thales UK Defence Mission Systems.
Barry is married with two daughters and has always considered an effective balance between family and career as being essential. His interests include travel, food, rugby, and study.
Becky Newell
Director of Marketing
Becky Newell is the Marketing Director at AJW Group and passionately responsible for promoting the Group’s products and services through branding, public relations, thought leadership, campaigns, advertising, social and digital media.
With a background in the sales and commercial contract departments at AJW, Becky has a ground-up knowledge of the key role AJW plays in supporting its customers. Her experience of customer journeys, affords her an impressive understanding of the industry and the ability to align our messaging and services to our customers' needs.
A skilled designer, at work and at home, Becky has been involved with the marketing and brand development for many years, laser focused on brand integrity, consistency, and strategy for the Group.
Outside of work, Becky balances her life between cooking and baking extraordinary cakes for her family, and then working off the calories with running and BODYCOMBAT. Her creativity and passion for design rears its head again with her love for mid-century modern interior design, sewing and painting.
Clare Brown
Finance Director
Clare is the Finance Director for AJW Aviation (trading name for AJW Group), responsible for all elements of accounting and finance business partnering within the company. During her time at AJWA, she has worked to build the company’s finance business partnering function, was finance lead on the successful retender of the easyJet contract and worked on the implementation of the finance data warehouse.
Prior to joining AJWA in 2016, she enjoyed over 25 years in aviation, including 12 years at Thomas Cook, culminating in her position as Finance Director for the UK (UNITED KINGDOM) airline. During her time at Thomas Cook, she worked on strategic projects such as the start-up of a Belgian group airline, the merger with Caledonian Airways, the potential acquisition of First Choice and then later the merger of MyTravel. After leaving Thomas Cook, she spent time contracting in various finance roles, working for two years at Air Malta as Head of Finance Transformation and then Interim CFO.
Clare is Chartered Institute of Management Accountants qualified with 30 years post qualification experience within a wide range of finance areas; using this broad experience to drive the finance transformation through automation and digitalisation. In addition to her finance qualification, Clare holds a professional diploma in management from Loughborough University. Outside of work, Clare enjoys travelling, walking, parkrun, and spending time with friends and family.
David Miret Mora
Technical Director
David leads a team of technical experts, delivering component and aircraft solutions to customers worldwide. He joined AJW Group in 2015 as a Warranty Engineer, having graduated in Aeronautical Engineering and Aerospace Engineering from the Polytechnic of Madrid and Leon University respectively. He specialised in Airworthiness in both degrees and later consolidated this with an MSc in Airworthiness from Cranfield University.
Promoted to Technical Service Engineer within his first year, Senior Technical Services Engineer two years later, and Technical Manager early in 2019, David quickly rose through the ranks, securing his current role as Technical Director in 2022. He is responsible for the Group's overall Technical, Compliance and Quality (TQC), Subcontract Management (SCM) strategies and development; setting the strategic direction and maintaining adherence, appropriate regulatory approval, industry standards, and ensuring suppliers meet their contractual performance targets.
David is a results-driven, experienced leader in technical services, quality (ISO9001/AS9120/Part145/Part M/CAMO) and the maintenance, repair and overhaul of commercial aircraft components. He enjoys resolving problems, improving customer satisfaction, driving operational improvements, and inspiring his team. Consistently introducing continuous improvement systems to deliver efficient processes and standard operating procedures, he ensures an agile, lean approach using his initiative and ‘can do' attitude to make things happen.
James Hill
Digital Transformation Director & Deputy CIO
Louis Philippe Mallette
VP General Manager Operations, AJW Technique
Mark Elliot
Director of Inventory Strategy
Nick Ward
Group Sales Director
James Hill
Digital Transformation Director & Deputy CIO
James Hill is AJW Group’s Digital Transformation Director and Deputy CIO. He joined in 2017 and is responsible for IT Operations, DevOps, Cloud, Infrastructure, Application, Procurement, and Cyber Security. James has overall responsibility for the Group’s digital and technology strategy, ensuring it is in line with that of the company.
With 20 years’ experience working in IT, across multiple industry sectors, he has helped various organisations ensure rapid growth and expansion while venturing into new markets and delivering digitalised initiatives that focused on improving the customer journey, services, staff efficiencies, and meeting business objectives.
Louis Philippe Mallette
VP General Manager Operations, AJW Technique
As VP General Manager of Operations at AJW Technique (the Group’s state-of-the-art MRO hub in Montreal), Louis brings over 25 years of international operational and strategic experience.
Louis’ career in aviation started at Bombardier, where he worked his way up from quality assurance to General Manager Operations. Speaking three languages (English, French, and Spanish) helped Louis lead individuals and multidisciplinary teams to complete numerous site transfers between and within China, Japan, Mexico, Morocco, Northern Ireland, Taiwan, and the United States.
When not using his mental stamina to grow and develop AJW Technique, he uses it, combined with his rugged determination and physical endurance, to compete on the Ironman triathlon circuit.
Mark Elliot
Director of Inventory Strategy
Mark Elliot is AJW Group’s Director of Inventory Strategy. He ensures the business takes a platform strategy-led approach to its inventory (acquisition, asset optimisation, divestment and pricing, and performance) and applies financial acumen at all stages of the process. Mark leads our Inventory Strategy team who also manage consigned assets, the financial assessment and performance of teardowns, along with the procurement of high performing rotable assets.
Prior to joining AJW Group in 2017, he enjoyed 12 years working for listed multinationals, culminating in his role as Divisional Financial Controller at Doosan Babcock.
Mark is a FCA qualified chartered accountant with over 20 years' experience working in finance teams or finance-related specialist functions. He is passionate about the use of automation and digitalisation to drive improvements to the business and continues to develop in-house tools to optimise customer experience and help transform aviation efficiency.
Mark takes a work hard, play hard approach and enjoys playing league cricket and tennis. He also enjoys travelling, time with the family, and the occasional round of golf.
Nick Ward
Group Sales Director
Nick joined AJW Group in 2011 as Group Sales Director, and established and managed key global strategic accounts in the China market. He has built up extensive customer relationships for AJW and continues to forge strategic partnerships for the business.
He enjoys the outdoors, travelling, and plays golf in his spare time.
Paul Dawson
Director of Procurement
Simon Merriott
Director of Solutions
Tony Whitty
SVP Aircraft & Engine Procurement
Umit Caymaz
Managing Director - AJW Türkiye
Paul Dawson
Director of Procurement
Paul is AJW Group’s Director of Procurement. He has overall responsibility for developing and executing AJW’s global procurement strategy, ensuring we have strong supplier relationships with partners that can effectively support the delivery of the company’s strategic objectives. Paul joined AJW in April 2021, bringing a wealth of experience from a career in aviation spanning more than 30 years. Previously, he held tactical and senior strategic procurement roles for airlines and a large MRO company, working within inventory strategy, supply chain management, and new business development.
Paul's industry experience is supported by a long-standing passion for aviation which started at an early age; his first steps into the industry being work experience during school holidays with a small airline. Paul went on to fulfil his dream of being a pilot by obtaining a pilot's license.
Outside of work, Paul enjoys travel, relaxing family holidays, and watching Formula 1.
Simon Merriott
Director of Solutions
Director of Solutions for AJW, with over 21 years’ experience, Simon Joined AJW in 2001 starting his aviation career in logistics overseeing all daily routine courier shipments. He transitioned to operations management, implementing and running a remote warehouse of 50,000 sq. ft. He followed this with a 12-month term as an AOG (Aircraft on Ground) shift manager working the full end-to-end AOG process, from quote through to procurement and all aspects of the operations cycle, from picking to logistics.
Simon returned to the logistics department managing the team for several years. After signing a major contract in 2015 he moved into contract management. As the key account manager for the Group’s largest customer, Simon handled all operational and commercial aspects of the contract including MRO, technical, logistics, operations, procurement, finance, and commercial. In 2020, he took full ownership of Contract Services, responsible for over 600 aircraft.
Simon enjoys spending time with his family, watching movies, eating out, and weightlifting. He has a lifelong passion for combat sports with extensive training in judo, kickboxing, Muay Thai, Krav Maga, and boxing, and practises BJJ (Brazilian jiu-jitsu) alongside his daughter.
Tony Whitty
SVP Aircraft & Engine Procurement
Tony Whitty joined AJW in November 2021 as Director of Aircraft and Engine Procurement, responsible for aircraft and engine acquisitions across the Group. Now Senior Vice President Aircraft & Engine Procurement, he brings over 30 years of aircraft remarketing experience with airlines, banks, liquidators, and other aircraft owners.
Tony began his career in aircraft remarketing in 1990 with Fortis Aviation, was one of the founders of Cabot Aviation in 1998, and subsequently worked for Air Partner. He is a committee member and Chairman of The Aviation Club UK and a member of ISTAT.
Tony plays golf at a high level and continues to maintain a low handicap.
Umit Caymaz
Managing Director - AJW Türkiye
Umit Caymaz joined AJW Group in 2022 as Managing Director of AJW Türkiye, our regional support hub. He is responsible for growing and developing the business activities of AJW Group’s products and services to meet the operational demands and support solutions within the region and beyond.
Umit began his career in customer support and gained further experience with several roles in technical purchasing and the Used Serviceable Material (USM) market at Onur Airlines and MNG Airlines in Turkey. He moved on to supporting companies including GA Telesis, and took on critical positions in sales management at EurAsia, later becoming a director of strategic sourcing and business development.
Umit graduated from university with a four-year bachelor’s degree in Business Administration and is committed to flying the AJW flag high by creating new opportunities for the company to expand in the aviation industry.
When not focusing on work, Umit enjoys being with his daughter, traveling, spending time with family and friends – and getting in a bit of gym time!
Christopher Whiteside
Chairman
Clyde Buntrock
Chief Executive Officer AJW Aviation & Technique
Christopher Whiteside
Chairman
As Chairman and CEO of AJW Group, Christopher is responsible for the strategic direction of the AJW Group. Under his visionary leadership AJW has grown from a company employing 15 people (when he took it over aged 25), to a Group boasting over 500 aviation professionals across Africa, Asia Pacific, China, CIS, Europe, Latin America, Middle East and North America.
AJW is recognised globally as the world-leading independent specialist in the supply of integrated aircraft support services for commercial and business aircraft. The Group's ambition and pioneering spirit, however, does not stop there as it looks beyond aviation to seize opportunities which play to the business' strengths.
A lifelong aviation business professional and entrepreneur, Chistopher is committed to developing engineering excellence throughout the aviation MRO industry. With a passion for travel, culture and time pieces, Christopher has lived in three continents and has a truly global perspective on business. He acquired and built up AJW Technique in Canada and built strong relationships in new and emerging markets.
Since 2009, Christopher has held a private pilot's licence.
Clyde Buntrock
Chief Executive Officer AJW Aviation & Technique
Clyde joined AJW Group as Chief Executive Officer of AJW Aviation in 2022, bringing a wealth of global knowledge gained during his lifelong career in logistics. In 2023 his position expanded to the role of CEO of both AJW Aviation and AJW Technique.
After completing his studies at university, he began his career in logistics, acquiring hands-on experience in all aspects of logistics, freight, and supply chain. This led him to his most recent role as CEO of EV Cargo, a supply chain solution and technology business. Now bringing his expertise to AJW, he shares the Group’s passion for driving digital transformation to ensure aviation efficiency. Clyde is no stranger to aviation, with his former company moving airfreight cargo on almost every air corridor around the world.
He is a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport and is focused on aligning key strategic initiatives with financial planning to achieve business success and growth. Clyde believes that building collaborative teams, nurturing talent, and creating a positive culture are keys to success, not only within the Group but with its partners as well.
Before moving to West Sussex with his family, Clyde lived in Twickenham where he fulfilled his passion for rugby and followed his favourite team, the Harlequins. As a qualified rugby coach and former back row player, being within walking distance of Harlequin’s games at the Stoop and Twickenham Stadiums was a pleasure.
When not solving logistical issues and watching rugby, Clyde enjoys the countryside with his wife and sons.
Craig Macpherson
Chief Information Officer AJW Aviation
Jane Hossack
Chief People Officer
Scott Symington
Chief Commercial Officer
Craig Macpherson
Chief Information Officer AJW Aviation
Bringing the experience of a lifelong career in IT, Craig joined AJW Aviation as Chief Information Officer in February 2023, to further advance its digital transformation.
He is an internationally experienced, commercially focused CIO, with a proven track record of success in transforming and leading multi-disciplinary IT organisations to achieve outstanding results and performance levels. Craig is recognised as a strong business partner, with significant experience in delivering IT strategies, organisational transition, and business-changing digital products and services. He is also adept at leading large-scale transformation programmes that enable data-led decision-making, which result in a step change in an organisation’s growth, and financial and operational performance.
He has a wealth of experience across a diverse range of business sectors. Companies that have benefitted from his expertise include the Department of Health and Social Care, Menzies Distribution, Fujitsu, BSI, Etihad Airways, GTA Travel, and CHEP.
Craig is married with grown-up children and two granddaughters. Outside of work he enjoys travelling with his wife and exploring new destinations both at home and abroad. A self-confessed petrol-head, he has a passion for all things automotive and all forms of motorsport.
Craig.Macpherson@ajw-group.com
Jane Hossack
Chief People Officer
Jane Hossack, Chief People Officer, is responsible for the People strategy, along with the goals of attracting the best candidates to AJW Group, motivating our workforce, and retaining the talented people who work here. With the support of the Executive and People teams, she creates a safe, fun culture in which people enjoy their work, and an environment that supports high performance and inspires people to develop their careers within the business.
Jane started her career in HR advisory and recruitment roles, as well as completing project-based roles in areas such as talent management and training. Prior to joining AJW, she was Head of HR at a privately owned aviation broker based at Gatwick Airport. Here she was responsible for the people strategy as well as setting up the people departments in various countries; her role involved travel and cultural immersion.
Jane studied HR management at university and achieved her MCIPD (Member of the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development) qualification thereafter.
Outside of work, Jane enjoys spending time with her wife, family, and friends. One of her biggest passions is to travel and if she can hop on a plane to visit a new city or country, she always takes the opportunity. Jane is fascinated by diverse cultures, and she likes to learn about and respect people’s differences. She enjoys cooking and eating out, going on long country walks, watching films and series, and going to the theatre.
Scott Symington
Chief Commercial Officer
Scott is a senior aviation executive who joined AJW Group as Chief Commercial Officer (CCO) in 2023 bringing 30 years of experience across the leasing, airline, OEM, and MRO sectors and has achieved an Executive MBA with Distinction.
He is responsible for driving the strategic sales plan across the AJW portfolio business lines and works hand in hand with other members of the Executive team and key leaders across the organisation to develop and implement an integrated commercial strategy.
Prior to joining AJW, Scott led the commercial, sales and marketing functions of a Dublin based aircraft lessor. Having developed the commercial team and built the platform to manage an 80 aircraft portfolio, Scott is committed to AJW’s mission to transform aviation efficiency. Starting his aviation career straight from school as an apprentice aircraft fitter at BAE SYSTEMS, he made quick progress at the company, becoming a licensed aircraft maintenance engineer, and then transferring to Toulouse to join technical support before moving into commercial roles. After 20 years at BAE, he moved to Athens to initiate Europe’s biggest ever start-up airline, Olympic Air, where he negotiated multiple aircraft leases, PBH and support contracts as well as starting the third-party MRO business. After, he relocated back to Scotland to set up and implement the aircraft leasing support strategy for the company which is now Collins Aerospace.
Outside of work, Scott loves to travel and is a passionate supporter of his national rugby team, attending all home games at Murrayfield and he can also be found at Scotstoun supporting the Glasgow Warriors.
Agne Noden
Director of Business Development
Andy Colbran
Director of Customer Services
Barry Swift
Senior Vice President Operations
Agne Noden
Director of Business Development
Agne is AJW Group’s Director of Business Development. She is responsible for our business development strategy which oversees AJW products and services and is powered by market analytics, collaboration with various product lines and business functions, digital transformation, and most important of all, our international business development team. Agne is passionate about strategic product development stemming from understanding behavioural changes in the market and continuously evolving customer needs.
The business development team is a dynamic, multicultural, solution-driven team with customer experience in mind every step of the way. The team’s mission is to nurture relationships with key customers to harvest and maximise the opportunities arising from our global marketplace.
After joining AJW in 2013, Agne worked on multiple strategic product development projects in commercial, business, and military aviation, actively exploring routes to new markets.
Agne holds a bachelor's degree from Vilnius Gediminas Technical University in Lithuania (her home country) and a master's degree from Brno University of Technology in Czech Republic.
Andy Colbran
Director of Customer Services
Andy has been with AJW for over 30 years. With a background in industrial sales, he has been involved in spare parts sales, customer service, and purchasing during his time with the company. Andy is now responsible for all customer service activities related to the company's Part Sales & Support business.
Barry Swift
Senior Vice President Operations
As Senior Vice President Operations, Barry leads on strategic improvements to Group operations. He oversees procurement, MRO management, technical/quality, warehouse and logistics, and strategic progress around an integrated supply chain methodology; this includes driving transformation to ensure the business delivers the highest levels of performance and customer satisfaction.
Barry’s career started in military avionics and has extensive experience in both engineering and supply chain management across many different industrial sectors, including automotive, fast moving consumer goods, capital equipment, defence, and aviation. Barry has a first-class honours degree in manufacturing engineering, a master's degree in integrated engineering and is a fully-fledged member of the Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply. He held multiple engineering positions during his 14 years with Ford Motor Company, became Supply Chain Manager for Delphi Diesel System’s HD business unit, Head of Procurement at Dyson, Operations Director within the Halma Group. Prior to his role at AJW, was the Director of Procurement at Thales UK Defence Mission Systems.
Barry is married with two daughters and has always considered an effective balance between family and career as being essential. His interests include travel, food, rugby, and study.
Becky Newell
Director of Marketing
Clare Brown
Finance Director
David Miret Mora
Technical Director
Becky Newell
Director of Marketing
Becky Newell is the Marketing Director at AJW Group and passionately responsible for promoting the Group’s products and services through branding, public relations, thought leadership, campaigns, advertising, social and digital media.
With a background in the sales and commercial contract departments at AJW, Becky has a ground-up knowledge of the key role AJW plays in supporting its customers. Her experience of customer journeys, affords her an impressive understanding of the industry and the ability to align our messaging and services to our customers' needs.
A skilled designer, at work and at home, Becky has been involved with the marketing and brand development for many years, laser focused on brand integrity, consistency, and strategy for the Group.
Outside of work, Becky balances her life between cooking and baking extraordinary cakes for her family, and then working off the calories with running and BODYCOMBAT. Her creativity and passion for design rears its head again with her love for mid-century modern interior design, sewing and painting.
Clare Brown
Finance Director
Clare is the Finance Director for AJW Aviation (trading name for AJW Group), responsible for all elements of accounting and finance business partnering within the company. During her time at AJWA, she has worked to build the company’s finance business partnering function, was finance lead on the successful retender of the easyJet contract and worked on the implementation of the finance data warehouse.
Prior to joining AJWA in 2016, she enjoyed over 25 years in aviation, including 12 years at Thomas Cook, culminating in her position as Finance Director for the UK (UNITED KINGDOM) airline. During her time at Thomas Cook, she worked on strategic projects such as the start-up of a Belgian group airline, the merger with Caledonian Airways, the potential acquisition of First Choice and then later the merger of MyTravel. After leaving Thomas Cook, she spent time contracting in various finance roles, working for two years at Air Malta as Head of Finance Transformation and then Interim CFO.
Clare is Chartered Institute of Management Accountants qualified with 30 years post qualification experience within a wide range of finance areas; using this broad experience to drive the finance transformation through automation and digitalisation. In addition to her finance qualification, Clare holds a professional diploma in management from Loughborough University. Outside of work, Clare enjoys travelling, walking, parkrun, and spending time with friends and family.
David Miret Mora
Technical Director
David leads a team of technical experts, delivering component and aircraft solutions to customers worldwide. He joined AJW Group in 2015 as a Warranty Engineer, having graduated in Aeronautical Engineering and Aerospace Engineering from the Polytechnic of Madrid and Leon University respectively. He specialised in Airworthiness in both degrees and later consolidated this with an MSc in Airworthiness from Cranfield University.
Promoted to Technical Service Engineer within his first year, Senior Technical Services Engineer two years later, and Technical Manager early in 2019, David quickly rose through the ranks, securing his current role as Technical Director in 2022. He is responsible for the Group's overall Technical, Compliance and Quality (TQC), Subcontract Management (SCM) strategies and development; setting the strategic direction and maintaining adherence, appropriate regulatory approval, industry standards, and ensuring suppliers meet their contractual performance targets.
David is a results-driven, experienced leader in technical services, quality (ISO9001/AS9120/Part145/Part M/CAMO) and the maintenance, repair and overhaul of commercial aircraft components. He enjoys resolving problems, improving customer satisfaction, driving operational improvements, and inspiring his team. Consistently introducing continuous improvement systems to deliver efficient processes and standard operating procedures, he ensures an agile, lean approach using his initiative and ‘can do' attitude to make things happen.
James Hill
Digital Transformation Director & Deputy CIO
Louis Philippe Mallette
VP General Manager Operations, AJW Technique
Mark Elliot
Director of Inventory Strategy
James Hill
Digital Transformation Director & Deputy CIO
James Hill is AJW Group’s Digital Transformation Director and Deputy CIO. He joined in 2017 and is responsible for IT Operations, DevOps, Cloud, Infrastructure, Application, Procurement, and Cyber Security. James has overall responsibility for the Group’s digital and technology strategy, ensuring it is in line with that of the company.
With 20 years’ experience working in IT, across multiple industry sectors, he has helped various organisations ensure rapid growth and expansion while venturing into new markets and delivering digitalised initiatives that focused on improving the customer journey, services, staff efficiencies, and meeting business objectives.
Louis Philippe Mallette
VP General Manager Operations, AJW Technique
As VP General Manager of Operations at AJW Technique (the Group’s state-of-the-art MRO hub in Montreal), Louis brings over 25 years of international operational and strategic experience.
Louis’ career in aviation started at Bombardier, where he worked his way up from quality assurance to General Manager Operations. Speaking three languages (English, French, and Spanish) helped Louis lead individuals and multidisciplinary teams to complete numerous site transfers between and within China, Japan, Mexico, Morocco, Northern Ireland, Taiwan, and the United States.
When not using his mental stamina to grow and develop AJW Technique, he uses it, combined with his rugged determination and physical endurance, to compete on the Ironman triathlon circuit.
Mark Elliot
Director of Inventory Strategy
Mark Elliot is AJW Group’s Director of Inventory Strategy. He ensures the business takes a platform strategy-led approach to its inventory (acquisition, asset optimisation, divestment and pricing, and performance) and applies financial acumen at all stages of the process. Mark leads our Inventory Strategy team who also manage consigned assets, the financial assessment and performance of teardowns, along with the procurement of high performing rotable assets.
Prior to joining AJW Group in 2017, he enjoyed 12 years working for listed multinationals, culminating in his role as Divisional Financial Controller at Doosan Babcock.
Mark is a FCA qualified chartered accountant with over 20 years' experience working in finance teams or finance-related specialist functions. He is passionate about the use of automation and digitalisation to drive improvements to the business and continues to develop in-house tools to optimise customer experience and help transform aviation efficiency.
Mark takes a work hard, play hard approach and enjoys playing league cricket and tennis. He also enjoys travelling, time with the family, and the occasional round of golf.
Nick Ward
Group Sales Director
Paul Dawson
Director of Procurement
Simon Merriott
Director of Solutions
Nick Ward
Group Sales Director
Nick joined AJW Group in 2011 as Group Sales Director, and established and managed key global strategic accounts in the China market. He has built up extensive customer relationships for AJW and continues to forge strategic partnerships for the business.
He enjoys the outdoors, travelling, and plays golf in his spare time.
Paul Dawson
Director of Procurement
Paul is AJW Group’s Director of Procurement. He has overall responsibility for developing and executing AJW’s global procurement strategy, ensuring we have strong supplier relationships with partners that can effectively support the delivery of the company’s strategic objectives. Paul joined AJW in April 2021, bringing a wealth of experience from a career in aviation spanning more than 30 years. Previously, he held tactical and senior strategic procurement roles for airlines and a large MRO company, working within inventory strategy, supply chain management, and new business development.
Paul's industry experience is supported by a long-standing passion for aviation which started at an early age; his first steps into the industry being work experience during school holidays with a small airline. Paul went on to fulfil his dream of being a pilot by obtaining a pilot's license.
Outside of work, Paul enjoys travel, relaxing family holidays, and watching Formula 1.
Simon Merriott
Director of Solutions
Director of Solutions for AJW, with over 21 years’ experience, Simon Joined AJW in 2001 starting his aviation career in logistics overseeing all daily routine courier shipments. He transitioned to operations management, implementing and running a remote warehouse of 50,000 sq. ft. He followed this with a 12-month term as an AOG (Aircraft on Ground) shift manager working the full end-to-end AOG process, from quote through to procurement and all aspects of the operations cycle, from picking to logistics.
Simon returned to the logistics department managing the team for several years. After signing a major contract in 2015 he moved into contract management. As the key account manager for the Group’s largest customer, Simon handled all operational and commercial aspects of the contract including MRO, technical, logistics, operations, procurement, finance, and commercial. In 2020, he took full ownership of Contract Services, responsible for over 600 aircraft.
Simon enjoys spending time with his family, watching movies, eating out, and weightlifting. He has a lifelong passion for combat sports with extensive training in judo, kickboxing, Muay Thai, Krav Maga, and boxing, and practises BJJ (Brazilian jiu-jitsu) alongside his daughter.
Tony Whitty
SVP Aircraft & Engine Procurement
Umit Caymaz
Managing Director - AJW Türkiye
Tony Whitty
SVP Aircraft & Engine Procurement
Tony Whitty joined AJW in November 2021 as Director of Aircraft and Engine Procurement, responsible for aircraft and engine acquisitions across the Group. Now Senior Vice President Aircraft & Engine Procurement, he brings over 30 years of aircraft remarketing experience with airlines, banks, liquidators, and other aircraft owners.
Tony began his career in aircraft remarketing in 1990 with Fortis Aviation, was one of the founders of Cabot Aviation in 1998, and subsequently worked for Air Partner. He is a committee member and Chairman of The Aviation Club UK and a member of ISTAT.
Tony plays golf at a high level and continues to maintain a low handicap.
Umit Caymaz
Managing Director - AJW Türkiye
Umit Caymaz joined AJW Group in 2022 as Managing Director of AJW Türkiye, our regional support hub. He is responsible for growing and developing the business activities of AJW Group’s products and services to meet the operational demands and support solutions within the region and beyond.
Umit began his career in customer support and gained further experience with several roles in technical purchasing and the Used Serviceable Material (USM) market at Onur Airlines and MNG Airlines in Turkey. He moved on to supporting companies including GA Telesis, and took on critical positions in sales management at EurAsia, later becoming a director of strategic sourcing and business development.
Umit graduated from university with a four-year bachelor’s degree in Business Administration and is committed to flying the AJW flag high by creating new opportunities for the company to expand in the aviation industry.
When not focusing on work, Umit enjoys being with his daughter, traveling, spending time with family and friends – and getting in a bit of gym time!
Christopher Whiteside
Chairman
Christopher Whiteside
Chairman
As Chairman and CEO of AJW Group, Christopher is responsible for the strategic direction of the AJW Group. Under his visionary leadership AJW has grown from a company employing 15 people (when he took it over aged 25), to a Group boasting over 500 aviation professionals across Africa, Asia Pacific, China, CIS, Europe, Latin America, Middle East and North America.
AJW is recognised globally as the world-leading independent specialist in the supply of integrated aircraft support services for commercial and business aircraft. The Group's ambition and pioneering spirit, however, does not stop there as it looks beyond aviation to seize opportunities which play to the business' strengths.
A lifelong aviation business professional and entrepreneur, Chistopher is committed to developing engineering excellence throughout the aviation MRO industry. With a passion for travel, culture and time pieces, Christopher has lived in three continents and has a truly global perspective on business. He acquired and built up AJW Technique in Canada and built strong relationships in new and emerging markets.
Since 2009, Christopher has held a private pilot's licence.
Clyde Buntrock
Chief Executive Officer AJW Aviation & Technique
Craig Macpherson
Chief Information Officer AJW Aviation
Clyde Buntrock
Chief Executive Officer AJW Aviation & Technique
Clyde joined AJW Group as Chief Executive Officer of AJW Aviation in 2022, bringing a wealth of global knowledge gained during his lifelong career in logistics. In 2023 his position expanded to the role of CEO of both AJW Aviation and AJW Technique.
After completing his studies at university, he began his career in logistics, acquiring hands-on experience in all aspects of logistics, freight, and supply chain. This led him to his most recent role as CEO of EV Cargo, a supply chain solution and technology business. Now bringing his expertise to AJW, he shares the Group’s passion for driving digital transformation to ensure aviation efficiency. Clyde is no stranger to aviation, with his former company moving airfreight cargo on almost every air corridor around the world.
He is a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport and is focused on aligning key strategic initiatives with financial planning to achieve business success and growth. Clyde believes that building collaborative teams, nurturing talent, and creating a positive culture are keys to success, not only within the Group but with its partners as well.
Before moving to West Sussex with his family, Clyde lived in Twickenham where he fulfilled his passion for rugby and followed his favourite team, the Harlequins. As a qualified rugby coach and former back row player, being within walking distance of Harlequin’s games at the Stoop and Twickenham Stadiums was a pleasure.
When not solving logistical issues and watching rugby, Clyde enjoys the countryside with his wife and sons.
Craig Macpherson
Chief Information Officer AJW Aviation
Bringing the experience of a lifelong career in IT, Craig joined AJW Aviation as Chief Information Officer in February 2023, to further advance its digital transformation.
He is an internationally experienced, commercially focused CIO, with a proven track record of success in transforming and leading multi-disciplinary IT organisations to achieve outstanding results and performance levels. Craig is recognised as a strong business partner, with significant experience in delivering IT strategies, organisational transition, and business-changing digital products and services. He is also adept at leading large-scale transformation programmes that enable data-led decision-making, which result in a step change in an organisation’s growth, and financial and operational performance.
He has a wealth of experience across a diverse range of business sectors. Companies that have benefitted from his expertise include the Department of Health and Social Care, Menzies Distribution, Fujitsu, BSI, Etihad Airways, GTA Travel, and CHEP.
Craig is married with grown-up children and two granddaughters. Outside of work he enjoys travelling with his wife and exploring new destinations both at home and abroad. A self-confessed petrol-head, he has a passion for all things automotive and all forms of motorsport.
Craig.Macpherson@ajw-group.com
Jane Hossack
Chief People Officer
Scott Symington
Chief Commercial Officer
Jane Hossack
Chief People Officer
Jane Hossack, Chief People Officer, is responsible for the People strategy, along with the goals of attracting the best candidates to AJW Group, motivating our workforce, and retaining the talented people who work here. With the support of the Executive and People teams, she creates a safe, fun culture in which people enjoy their work, and an environment that supports high performance and inspires people to develop their careers within the business.
Jane started her career in HR advisory and recruitment roles, as well as completing project-based roles in areas such as talent management and training. Prior to joining AJW, she was Head of HR at a privately owned aviation broker based at Gatwick Airport. Here she was responsible for the people strategy as well as setting up the people departments in various countries; her role involved travel and cultural immersion.
Jane studied HR management at university and achieved her MCIPD (Member of the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development) qualification thereafter.
Outside of work, Jane enjoys spending time with her wife, family, and friends. One of her biggest passions is to travel and if she can hop on a plane to visit a new city or country, she always takes the opportunity. Jane is fascinated by diverse cultures, and she likes to learn about and respect people’s differences. She enjoys cooking and eating out, going on long country walks, watching films and series, and going to the theatre.
Scott Symington
Chief Commercial Officer
Scott is a senior aviation executive who joined AJW Group as Chief Commercial Officer (CCO) in 2023 bringing 30 years of experience across the leasing, airline, OEM, and MRO sectors and has achieved an Executive MBA with Distinction.
He is responsible for driving the strategic sales plan across the AJW portfolio business lines and works hand in hand with other members of the Executive team and key leaders across the organisation to develop and implement an integrated commercial strategy.
Prior to joining AJW, Scott led the commercial, sales and marketing functions of a Dublin based aircraft lessor. Having developed the commercial team and built the platform to manage an 80 aircraft portfolio, Scott is committed to AJW’s mission to transform aviation efficiency. Starting his aviation career straight from school as an apprentice aircraft fitter at BAE SYSTEMS, he made quick progress at the company, becoming a licensed aircraft maintenance engineer, and then transferring to Toulouse to join technical support before moving into commercial roles. After 20 years at BAE, he moved to Athens to initiate Europe’s biggest ever start-up airline, Olympic Air, where he negotiated multiple aircraft leases, PBH and support contracts as well as starting the third-party MRO business. After, he relocated back to Scotland to set up and implement the aircraft leasing support strategy for the company which is now Collins Aerospace.
Outside of work, Scott loves to travel and is a passionate supporter of his national rugby team, attending all home games at Murrayfield and he can also be found at Scotstoun supporting the Glasgow Warriors.
Agne Noden
Director of Business Development
Andy Colbran
Director of Customer Services
Agne Noden
Director of Business Development
Agne is AJW Group’s Director of Business Development. She is responsible for our business development strategy which oversees AJW products and services and is powered by market analytics, collaboration with various product lines and business functions, digital transformation, and most important of all, our international business development team. Agne is passionate about strategic product development stemming from understanding behavioural changes in the market and continuously evolving customer needs.
The business development team is a dynamic, multicultural, solution-driven team with customer experience in mind every step of the way. The team’s mission is to nurture relationships with key customers to harvest and maximise the opportunities arising from our global marketplace.
After joining AJW in 2013, Agne worked on multiple strategic product development projects in commercial, business, and military aviation, actively exploring routes to new markets.
Agne holds a bachelor's degree from Vilnius Gediminas Technical University in Lithuania (her home country) and a master's degree from Brno University of Technology in Czech Republic.
Andy Colbran
Director of Customer Services
Andy has been with AJW for over 30 years. With a background in industrial sales, he has been involved in spare parts sales, customer service, and purchasing during his time with the company. Andy is now responsible for all customer service activities related to the company's Part Sales & Support business.
Barry Swift
Senior Vice President Operations
Becky Newell
Director of Marketing
Barry Swift
Senior Vice President Operations
As Senior Vice President Operations, Barry leads on strategic improvements to Group operations. He oversees procurement, MRO management, technical/quality, warehouse and logistics, and strategic progress around an integrated supply chain methodology; this includes driving transformation to ensure the business delivers the highest levels of performance and customer satisfaction.
Barry’s career started in military avionics and has extensive experience in both engineering and supply chain management across many different industrial sectors, including automotive, fast moving consumer goods, capital equipment, defence, and aviation. Barry has a first-class honours degree in manufacturing engineering, a master's degree in integrated engineering and is a fully-fledged member of the Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply. He held multiple engineering positions during his 14 years with Ford Motor Company, became Supply Chain Manager for Delphi Diesel System’s HD business unit, Head of Procurement at Dyson, Operations Director within the Halma Group. Prior to his role at AJW, was the Director of Procurement at Thales UK Defence Mission Systems.
Barry is married with two daughters and has always considered an effective balance between family and career as being essential. His interests include travel, food, rugby, and study.
Becky Newell
Director of Marketing
Becky Newell is the Marketing Director at AJW Group and passionately responsible for promoting the Group’s products and services through branding, public relations, thought leadership, campaigns, advertising, social and digital media.
With a background in the sales and commercial contract departments at AJW, Becky has a ground-up knowledge of the key role AJW plays in supporting its customers. Her experience of customer journeys, affords her an impressive understanding of the industry and the ability to align our messaging and services to our customers' needs.
A skilled designer, at work and at home, Becky has been involved with the marketing and brand development for many years, laser focused on brand integrity, consistency, and strategy for the Group.
Outside of work, Becky balances her life between cooking and baking extraordinary cakes for her family, and then working off the calories with running and BODYCOMBAT. Her creativity and passion for design rears its head again with her love for mid-century modern interior design, sewing and painting.
Clare Brown
Finance Director
David Miret Mora
Technical Director
Clare Brown
Finance Director
Clare is the Finance Director for AJW Aviation (trading name for AJW Group), responsible for all elements of accounting and finance business partnering within the company. During her time at AJWA, she has worked to build the company’s finance business partnering function, was finance lead on the successful retender of the easyJet contract and worked on the implementation of the finance data warehouse.
Prior to joining AJWA in 2016, she enjoyed over 25 years in aviation, including 12 years at Thomas Cook, culminating in her position as Finance Director for the UK (UNITED KINGDOM) airline. During her time at Thomas Cook, she worked on strategic projects such as the start-up of a Belgian group airline, the merger with Caledonian Airways, the potential acquisition of First Choice and then later the merger of MyTravel. After leaving Thomas Cook, she spent time contracting in various finance roles, working for two years at Air Malta as Head of Finance Transformation and then Interim CFO.
Clare is Chartered Institute of Management Accountants qualified with 30 years post qualification experience within a wide range of finance areas; using this broad experience to drive the finance transformation through automation and digitalisation. In addition to her finance qualification, Clare holds a professional diploma in management from Loughborough University. Outside of work, Clare enjoys travelling, walking, parkrun, and spending time with friends and family.
David Miret Mora
Technical Director
David leads a team of technical experts, delivering component and aircraft solutions to customers worldwide. He joined AJW Group in 2015 as a Warranty Engineer, having graduated in Aeronautical Engineering and Aerospace Engineering from the Polytechnic of Madrid and Leon University respectively. He specialised in Airworthiness in both degrees and later consolidated this with an MSc in Airworthiness from Cranfield University.
Promoted to Technical Service Engineer within his first year, Senior Technical Services Engineer two years later, and Technical Manager early in 2019, David quickly rose through the ranks, securing his current role as Technical Director in 2022. He is responsible for the Group's overall Technical, Compliance and Quality (TQC), Subcontract Management (SCM) strategies and development; setting the strategic direction and maintaining adherence, appropriate regulatory approval, industry standards, and ensuring suppliers meet their contractual performance targets.
David is a results-driven, experienced leader in technical services, quality (ISO9001/AS9120/Part145/Part M/CAMO) and the maintenance, repair and overhaul of commercial aircraft components. He enjoys resolving problems, improving customer satisfaction, driving operational improvements, and inspiring his team. Consistently introducing continuous improvement systems to deliver efficient processes and standard operating procedures, he ensures an agile, lean approach using his initiative and ‘can do' attitude to make things happen.
James Hill
Digital Transformation Director & Deputy CIO
Louis Philippe Mallette
VP General Manager Operations, AJW Technique
James Hill
Digital Transformation Director & Deputy CIO
James Hill is AJW Group’s Digital Transformation Director and Deputy CIO. He joined in 2017 and is responsible for IT Operations, DevOps, Cloud, Infrastructure, Application, Procurement, and Cyber Security. James has overall responsibility for the Group’s digital and technology strategy, ensuring it is in line with that of the company.
With 20 years’ experience working in IT, across multiple industry sectors, he has helped various organisations ensure rapid growth and expansion while venturing into new markets and delivering digitalised initiatives that focused on improving the customer journey, services, staff efficiencies, and meeting business objectives.
Louis Philippe Mallette
VP General Manager Operations, AJW Technique
As VP General Manager of Operations at AJW Technique (the Group’s state-of-the-art MRO hub in Montreal), Louis brings over 25 years of international operational and strategic experience.
Louis’ career in aviation started at Bombardier, where he worked his way up from quality assurance to General Manager Operations. Speaking three languages (English, French, and Spanish) helped Louis lead individuals and multidisciplinary teams to complete numerous site transfers between and within China, Japan, Mexico, Morocco, Northern Ireland, Taiwan, and the United States.
When not using his mental stamina to grow and develop AJW Technique, he uses it, combined with his rugged determination and physical endurance, to compete on the Ironman triathlon circuit.
Mark Elliot
Director of Inventory Strategy
Nick Ward
Group Sales Director
Mark Elliot
Director of Inventory Strategy
Mark Elliot is AJW Group’s Director of Inventory Strategy. He ensures the business takes a platform strategy-led approach to its inventory (acquisition, asset optimisation, divestment and pricing, and performance) and applies financial acumen at all stages of the process. Mark leads our Inventory Strategy team who also manage consigned assets, the financial assessment and performance of teardowns, along with the procurement of high performing rotable assets.
Prior to joining AJW Group in 2017, he enjoyed 12 years working for listed multinationals, culminating in his role as Divisional Financial Controller at Doosan Babcock.
Mark is a FCA qualified chartered accountant with over 20 years' experience working in finance teams or finance-related specialist functions. He is passionate about the use of automation and digitalisation to drive improvements to the business and continues to develop in-house tools to optimise customer experience and help transform aviation efficiency.
Mark takes a work hard, play hard approach and enjoys playing league cricket and tennis. He also enjoys travelling, time with the family, and the occasional round of golf.
Nick Ward
Group Sales Director
Nick joined AJW Group in 2011 as Group Sales Director, and established and managed key global strategic accounts in the China market. He has built up extensive customer relationships for AJW and continues to forge strategic partnerships for the business.
He enjoys the outdoors, travelling, and plays golf in his spare time.
Paul Dawson
Director of Procurement
Simon Merriott
Director of Solutions
Paul Dawson
Director of Procurement
Paul is AJW Group’s Director of Procurement. He has overall responsibility for developing and executing AJW’s global procurement strategy, ensuring we have strong supplier relationships with partners that can effectively support the delivery of the company’s strategic objectives. Paul joined AJW in April 2021, bringing a wealth of experience from a career in aviation spanning more than 30 years. Previously, he held tactical and senior strategic procurement roles for airlines and a large MRO company, working within inventory strategy, supply chain management, and new business development.
Paul's industry experience is supported by a long-standing passion for aviation which started at an early age; his first steps into the industry being work experience during school holidays with a small airline. Paul went on to fulfil his dream of being a pilot by obtaining a pilot's license.
Outside of work, Paul enjoys travel, relaxing family holidays, and watching Formula 1.
Simon Merriott
Director of Solutions
Director of Solutions for AJW, with over 21 years’ experience, Simon Joined AJW in 2001 starting his aviation career in logistics overseeing all daily routine courier shipments. He transitioned to operations management, implementing and running a remote warehouse of 50,000 sq. ft. He followed this with a 12-month term as an AOG (Aircraft on Ground) shift manager working the full end-to-end AOG process, from quote through to procurement and all aspects of the operations cycle, from picking to logistics.
Simon returned to the logistics department managing the team for several years. After signing a major contract in 2015 he moved into contract management. As the key account manager for the Group’s largest customer, Simon handled all operational and commercial aspects of the contract including MRO, technical, logistics, operations, procurement, finance, and commercial. In 2020, he took full ownership of Contract Services, responsible for over 600 aircraft.
Simon enjoys spending time with his family, watching movies, eating out, and weightlifting. He has a lifelong passion for combat sports with extensive training in judo, kickboxing, Muay Thai, Krav Maga, and boxing, and practises BJJ (Brazilian jiu-jitsu) alongside his daughter.
Tony Whitty
SVP Aircraft & Engine Procurement
Umit Caymaz
Managing Director - AJW Türkiye
Tony Whitty
SVP Aircraft & Engine Procurement
Tony Whitty joined AJW in November 2021 as Director of Aircraft and Engine Procurement, responsible for aircraft and engine acquisitions across the Group. Now Senior Vice President Aircraft & Engine Procurement, he brings over 30 years of aircraft remarketing experience with airlines, banks, liquidators, and other aircraft owners.
Tony began his career in aircraft remarketing in 1990 with Fortis Aviation, was one of the founders of Cabot Aviation in 1998, and subsequently worked for Air Partner. He is a committee member and Chairman of The Aviation Club UK and a member of ISTAT.
Tony plays golf at a high level and continues to maintain a low handicap.
Umit Caymaz
Managing Director - AJW Türkiye
Umit Caymaz joined AJW Group in 2022 as Managing Director of AJW Türkiye, our regional support hub. He is responsible for growing and developing the business activities of AJW Group’s products and services to meet the operational demands and support solutions within the region and beyond.
Umit began his career in customer support and gained further experience with several roles in technical purchasing and the Used Serviceable Material (USM) market at Onur Airlines and MNG Airlines in Turkey. He moved on to supporting companies including GA Telesis, and took on critical positions in sales management at EurAsia, later becoming a director of strategic sourcing and business development.
Umit graduated from university with a four-year bachelor’s degree in Business Administration and is committed to flying the AJW flag high by creating new opportunities for the company to expand in the aviation industry.
When not focusing on work, Umit enjoys being with his daughter, traveling, spending time with family and friends – and getting in a bit of gym time!
Christopher Whiteside
Chairman
Christopher Whiteside
Chairman
As Chairman and CEO of AJW Group, Christopher is responsible for the strategic direction of the AJW Group. Under his visionary leadership AJW has grown from a company employing 15 people (when he took it over aged 25), to a Group boasting over 500 aviation professionals across Africa, Asia Pacific, China, CIS, Europe, Latin America, Middle East and North America.
AJW is recognised globally as the world-leading independent specialist in the supply of integrated aircraft support services for commercial and business aircraft. The Group's ambition and pioneering spirit, however, does not stop there as it looks beyond aviation to seize opportunities which play to the business' strengths.
A lifelong aviation business professional and entrepreneur, Chistopher is committed to developing engineering excellence throughout the aviation MRO industry. With a passion for travel, culture and time pieces, Christopher has lived in three continents and has a truly global perspective on business. He acquired and built up AJW Technique in Canada and built strong relationships in new and emerging markets.
Since 2009, Christopher has held a private pilot's licence.
Clyde Buntrock
Chief Executive Officer AJW Aviation & Technique
Clyde Buntrock
Chief Executive Officer AJW Aviation & Technique
Clyde joined AJW Group as Chief Executive Officer of AJW Aviation in 2022, bringing a wealth of global knowledge gained during his lifelong career in logistics. In 2023 his position expanded to the role of CEO of both AJW Aviation and AJW Technique.
After completing his studies at university, he began his career in logistics, acquiring hands-on experience in all aspects of logistics, freight, and supply chain. This led him to his most recent role as CEO of EV Cargo, a supply chain solution and technology business. Now bringing his expertise to AJW, he shares the Group’s passion for driving digital transformation to ensure aviation efficiency. Clyde is no stranger to aviation, with his former company moving airfreight cargo on almost every air corridor around the world.
He is a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport and is focused on aligning key strategic initiatives with financial planning to achieve business success and growth. Clyde believes that building collaborative teams, nurturing talent, and creating a positive culture are keys to success, not only within the Group but with its partners as well.
Before moving to West Sussex with his family, Clyde lived in Twickenham where he fulfilled his passion for rugby and followed his favourite team, the Harlequins. As a qualified rugby coach and former back row player, being within walking distance of Harlequin’s games at the Stoop and Twickenham Stadiums was a pleasure.
When not solving logistical issues and watching rugby, Clyde enjoys the countryside with his wife and sons.
Craig Macpherson
Chief Information Officer AJW Aviation
Craig Macpherson
Chief Information Officer AJW Aviation
Bringing the experience of a lifelong career in IT, Craig joined AJW Aviation as Chief Information Officer in February 2023, to further advance its digital transformation.
He is an internationally experienced, commercially focused CIO, with a proven track record of success in transforming and leading multi-disciplinary IT organisations to achieve outstanding results and performance levels. Craig is recognised as a strong business partner, with significant experience in delivering IT strategies, organisational transition, and business-changing digital products and services. He is also adept at leading large-scale transformation programmes that enable data-led decision-making, which result in a step change in an organisation’s growth, and financial and operational performance.
He has a wealth of experience across a diverse range of business sectors. Companies that have benefitted from his expertise include the Department of Health and Social Care, Menzies Distribution, Fujitsu, BSI, Etihad Airways, GTA Travel, and CHEP.
Craig is married with grown-up children and two granddaughters. Outside of work he enjoys travelling with his wife and exploring new destinations both at home and abroad. A self-confessed petrol-head, he has a passion for all things automotive and all forms of motorsport.
Craig.Macpherson@ajw-group.com
Jane Hossack
Chief People Officer
Jane Hossack
Chief People Officer
Jane Hossack, Chief People Officer, is responsible for the People strategy, along with the goals of attracting the best candidates to AJW Group, motivating our workforce, and retaining the talented people who work here. With the support of the Executive and People teams, she creates a safe, fun culture in which people enjoy their work, and an environment that supports high performance and inspires people to develop their careers within the business.
Jane started her career in HR advisory and recruitment roles, as well as completing project-based roles in areas such as talent management and training. Prior to joining AJW, she was Head of HR at a privately owned aviation broker based at Gatwick Airport. Here she was responsible for the people strategy as well as setting up the people departments in various countries; her role involved travel and cultural immersion.
Jane studied HR management at university and achieved her MCIPD (Member of the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development) qualification thereafter.
Outside of work, Jane enjoys spending time with her wife, family, and friends. One of her biggest passions is to travel and if she can hop on a plane to visit a new city or country, she always takes the opportunity. Jane is fascinated by diverse cultures, and she likes to learn about and respect people’s differences. She enjoys cooking and eating out, going on long country walks, watching films and series, and going to the theatre.
Scott Symington
Chief Commercial Officer
Scott Symington
Chief Commercial Officer
Scott is a senior aviation executive who joined AJW Group as Chief Commercial Officer (CCO) in 2023 bringing 30 years of experience across the leasing, airline, OEM, and MRO sectors and has achieved an Executive MBA with Distinction.
He is responsible for driving the strategic sales plan across the AJW portfolio business lines and works hand in hand with other members of the Executive team and key leaders across the organisation to develop and implement an integrated commercial strategy.
Prior to joining AJW, Scott led the commercial, sales and marketing functions of a Dublin based aircraft lessor. Having developed the commercial team and built the platform to manage an 80 aircraft portfolio, Scott is committed to AJW’s mission to transform aviation efficiency. Starting his aviation career straight from school as an apprentice aircraft fitter at BAE SYSTEMS, he made quick progress at the company, becoming a licensed aircraft maintenance engineer, and then transferring to Toulouse to join technical support before moving into commercial roles. After 20 years at BAE, he moved to Athens to initiate Europe’s biggest ever start-up airline, Olympic Air, where he negotiated multiple aircraft leases, PBH and support contracts as well as starting the third-party MRO business. After, he relocated back to Scotland to set up and implement the aircraft leasing support strategy for the company which is now Collins Aerospace.
Outside of work, Scott loves to travel and is a passionate supporter of his national rugby team, attending all home games at Murrayfield and he can also be found at Scotstoun supporting the Glasgow Warriors.
Agne Noden
Director of Business Development
Agne Noden
Director of Business Development
Agne is AJW Group’s Director of Business Development. She is responsible for our business development strategy which oversees AJW products and services and is powered by market analytics, collaboration with various product lines and business functions, digital transformation, and most important of all, our international business development team. Agne is passionate about strategic product development stemming from understanding behavioural changes in the market and continuously evolving customer needs.
The business development team is a dynamic, multicultural, solution-driven team with customer experience in mind every step of the way. The team’s mission is to nurture relationships with key customers to harvest and maximise the opportunities arising from our global marketplace.
After joining AJW in 2013, Agne worked on multiple strategic product development projects in commercial, business, and military aviation, actively exploring routes to new markets.
Agne holds a bachelor's degree from Vilnius Gediminas Technical University in Lithuania (her home country) and a master's degree from Brno University of Technology in Czech Republic.
Andy Colbran
Director of Customer Services
Andy Colbran
Director of Customer Services
Andy has been with AJW for over 30 years. With a background in industrial sales, he has been involved in spare parts sales, customer service, and purchasing during his time with the company. Andy is now responsible for all customer service activities related to the company's Part Sales & Support business.
Barry Swift
Senior Vice President Operations
Barry Swift
Senior Vice President Operations
As Senior Vice President Operations, Barry leads on strategic improvements to Group operations. He oversees procurement, MRO management, technical/quality, warehouse and logistics, and strategic progress around an integrated supply chain methodology; this includes driving transformation to ensure the business delivers the highest levels of performance and customer satisfaction.
Barry’s career started in military avionics and has extensive experience in both engineering and supply chain management across many different industrial sectors, including automotive, fast moving consumer goods, capital equipment, defence, and aviation. Barry has a first-class honours degree in manufacturing engineering, a master's degree in integrated engineering and is a fully-fledged member of the Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply. He held multiple engineering positions during his 14 years with Ford Motor Company, became Supply Chain Manager for Delphi Diesel System’s HD business unit, Head of Procurement at Dyson, Operations Director within the Halma Group. Prior to his role at AJW, was the Director of Procurement at Thales UK Defence Mission Systems.
Barry is married with two daughters and has always considered an effective balance between family and career as being essential. His interests include travel, food, rugby, and study.
Becky Newell
Director of Marketing
Becky Newell
Director of Marketing
Becky Newell is the Marketing Director at AJW Group and passionately responsible for promoting the Group’s products and services through branding, public relations, thought leadership, campaigns, advertising, social and digital media.
With a background in the sales and commercial contract departments at AJW, Becky has a ground-up knowledge of the key role AJW plays in supporting its customers. Her experience of customer journeys, affords her an impressive understanding of the industry and the ability to align our messaging and services to our customers' needs.
A skilled designer, at work and at home, Becky has been involved with the marketing and brand development for many years, laser focused on brand integrity, consistency, and strategy for the Group.
Outside of work, Becky balances her life between cooking and baking extraordinary cakes for her family, and then working off the calories with running and BODYCOMBAT. Her creativity and passion for design rears its head again with her love for mid-century modern interior design, sewing and painting.
Clare Brown
Finance Director
Clare Brown
Finance Director
Clare is the Finance Director for AJW Aviation (trading name for AJW Group), responsible for all elements of accounting and finance business partnering within the company. During her time at AJWA, she has worked to build the company’s finance business partnering function, was finance lead on the successful retender of the easyJet contract and worked on the implementation of the finance data warehouse.
Prior to joining AJWA in 2016, she enjoyed over 25 years in aviation, including 12 years at Thomas Cook, culminating in her position as Finance Director for the UK (UNITED KINGDOM) airline. During her time at Thomas Cook, she worked on strategic projects such as the start-up of a Belgian group airline, the merger with Caledonian Airways, the potential acquisition of First Choice and then later the merger of MyTravel. After leaving Thomas Cook, she spent time contracting in various finance roles, working for two years at Air Malta as Head of Finance Transformation and then Interim CFO.
Clare is Chartered Institute of Management Accountants qualified with 30 years post qualification experience within a wide range of finance areas; using this broad experience to drive the finance transformation through automation and digitalisation. In addition to her finance qualification, Clare holds a professional diploma in management from Loughborough University. Outside of work, Clare enjoys travelling, walking, parkrun, and spending time with friends and family.
David Miret Mora
Technical Director
David Miret Mora
Technical Director
David leads a team of technical experts, delivering component and aircraft solutions to customers worldwide. He joined AJW Group in 2015 as a Warranty Engineer, having graduated in Aeronautical Engineering and Aerospace Engineering from the Polytechnic of Madrid and Leon University respectively. He specialised in Airworthiness in both degrees and later consolidated this with an MSc in Airworthiness from Cranfield University.
Promoted to Technical Service Engineer within his first year, Senior Technical Services Engineer two years later, and Technical Manager early in 2019, David quickly rose through the ranks, securing his current role as Technical Director in 2022. He is responsible for the Group's overall Technical, Compliance and Quality (TQC), Subcontract Management (SCM) strategies and development; setting the strategic direction and maintaining adherence, appropriate regulatory approval, industry standards, and ensuring suppliers meet their contractual performance targets.
David is a results-driven, experienced leader in technical services, quality (ISO9001/AS9120/Part145/Part M/CAMO) and the maintenance, repair and overhaul of commercial aircraft components. He enjoys resolving problems, improving customer satisfaction, driving operational improvements, and inspiring his team. Consistently introducing continuous improvement systems to deliver efficient processes and standard operating procedures, he ensures an agile, lean approach using his initiative and ‘can do' attitude to make things happen.
James Hill
Digital Transformation Director & Deputy CIO
James Hill
Digital Transformation Director & Deputy CIO
James Hill is AJW Group’s Digital Transformation Director and Deputy CIO. He joined in 2017 and is responsible for IT Operations, DevOps, Cloud, Infrastructure, Application, Procurement, and Cyber Security. James has overall responsibility for the Group’s digital and technology strategy, ensuring it is in line with that of the company.
With 20 years’ experience working in IT, across multiple industry sectors, he has helped various organisations ensure rapid growth and expansion while venturing into new markets and delivering digitalised initiatives that focused on improving the customer journey, services, staff efficiencies, and meeting business objectives.
Louis Philippe Mallette
VP General Manager Operations, AJW Technique
Louis Philippe Mallette
VP General Manager Operations, AJW Technique
As VP General Manager of Operations at AJW Technique (the Group’s state-of-the-art MRO hub in Montreal), Louis brings over 25 years of international operational and strategic experience.
Louis’ career in aviation started at Bombardier, where he worked his way up from quality assurance to General Manager Operations. Speaking three languages (English, French, and Spanish) helped Louis lead individuals and multidisciplinary teams to complete numerous site transfers between and within China, Japan, Mexico, Morocco, Northern Ireland, Taiwan, and the United States.
When not using his mental stamina to grow and develop AJW Technique, he uses it, combined with his rugged determination and physical endurance, to compete on the Ironman triathlon circuit.
Mark Elliot
Director of Inventory Strategy
Mark Elliot
Director of Inventory Strategy
Mark Elliot is AJW Group’s Director of Inventory Strategy. He ensures the business takes a platform strategy-led approach to its inventory (acquisition, asset optimisation, divestment and pricing, and performance) and applies financial acumen at all stages of the process. Mark leads our Inventory Strategy team who also manage consigned assets, the financial assessment and performance of teardowns, along with the procurement of high performing rotable assets.
Prior to joining AJW Group in 2017, he enjoyed 12 years working for listed multinationals, culminating in his role as Divisional Financial Controller at Doosan Babcock.
Mark is a FCA qualified chartered accountant with over 20 years' experience working in finance teams or finance-related specialist functions. He is passionate about the use of automation and digitalisation to drive improvements to the business and continues to develop in-house tools to optimise customer experience and help transform aviation efficiency.
Mark takes a work hard, play hard approach and enjoys playing league cricket and tennis. He also enjoys travelling, time with the family, and the occasional round of golf.
Nick Ward
Group Sales Director
Nick Ward
Group Sales Director
Nick joined AJW Group in 2011 as Group Sales Director, and established and managed key global strategic accounts in the China market. He has built up extensive customer relationships for AJW and continues to forge strategic partnerships for the business.
He enjoys the outdoors, travelling, and plays golf in his spare time.
Paul Dawson
Director of Procurement
Paul Dawson
Director of Procurement
Paul is AJW Group’s Director of Procurement. He has overall responsibility for developing and executing AJW’s global procurement strategy, ensuring we have strong supplier relationships with partners that can effectively support the delivery of the company’s strategic objectives. Paul joined AJW in April 2021, bringing a wealth of experience from a career in aviation spanning more than 30 years. Previously, he held tactical and senior strategic procurement roles for airlines and a large MRO company, working within inventory strategy, supply chain management, and new business development.
Paul's industry experience is supported by a long-standing passion for aviation which started at an early age; his first steps into the industry being work experience during school holidays with a small airline. Paul went on to fulfil his dream of being a pilot by obtaining a pilot's license.
Outside of work, Paul enjoys travel, relaxing family holidays, and watching Formula 1.
Simon Merriott
Director of Solutions
Simon Merriott
Director of Solutions
Director of Solutions for AJW, with over 21 years’ experience, Simon Joined AJW in 2001 starting his aviation career in logistics overseeing all daily routine courier shipments. He transitioned to operations management, implementing and running a remote warehouse of 50,000 sq. ft. He followed this with a 12-month term as an AOG (Aircraft on Ground) shift manager working the full end-to-end AOG process, from quote through to procurement and all aspects of the operations cycle, from picking to logistics.
Simon returned to the logistics department managing the team for several years. After signing a major contract in 2015 he moved into contract management. As the key account manager for the Group’s largest customer, Simon handled all operational and commercial aspects of the contract including MRO, technical, logistics, operations, procurement, finance, and commercial. In 2020, he took full ownership of Contract Services, responsible for over 600 aircraft.
Simon enjoys spending time with his family, watching movies, eating out, and weightlifting. He has a lifelong passion for combat sports with extensive training in judo, kickboxing, Muay Thai, Krav Maga, and boxing, and practises BJJ (Brazilian jiu-jitsu) alongside his daughter.
Tony Whitty
SVP Aircraft & Engine Procurement
Tony Whitty
SVP Aircraft & Engine Procurement
Tony Whitty joined AJW in November 2021 as Director of Aircraft and Engine Procurement, responsible for aircraft and engine acquisitions across the Group. Now Senior Vice President Aircraft & Engine Procurement, he brings over 30 years of aircraft remarketing experience with airlines, banks, liquidators, and other aircraft owners.
Tony began his career in aircraft remarketing in 1990 with Fortis Aviation, was one of the founders of Cabot Aviation in 1998, and subsequently worked for Air Partner. He is a committee member and Chairman of The Aviation Club UK and a member of ISTAT.
Tony plays golf at a high level and continues to maintain a low handicap.
Umit Caymaz
Managing Director - AJW Türkiye
Umit Caymaz
Managing Director - AJW Türkiye
Umit Caymaz joined AJW Group in 2022 as Managing Director of AJW Türkiye, our regional support hub. He is responsible for growing and developing the business activities of AJW Group’s products and services to meet the operational demands and support solutions within the region and beyond.
Umit began his career in customer support and gained further experience with several roles in technical purchasing and the Used Serviceable Material (USM) market at Onur Airlines and MNG Airlines in Turkey. He moved on to supporting companies including GA Telesis, and took on critical positions in sales management at EurAsia, later becoming a director of strategic sourcing and business development.
Umit graduated from university with a four-year bachelor’s degree in Business Administration and is committed to flying the AJW flag high by creating new opportunities for the company to expand in the aviation industry.
When not focusing on work, Umit enjoys being with his daughter, traveling, spending time with family and friends – and getting in a bit of gym time!
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