The Senior Leadership Team is directed by the C-Suite and uses its expertise to deliver the operational plans, driving efficiency and value throughout the company - helping the Group transform aviation efficiency.
Click or tap on the profile images below to learn more.
Agne Noden
Director of Business Development Strategy
Andy Colbran
Director of Customer Services
Ann Mallinson
Director of Financial Control
Becky Newell
Director of Marketing
Agne Noden
Director of Business Development Strategy
As Director of Business Development Strategy, Agne focuses on market analysis and insights to help shape the AJW product portfolio, the targeting of our customer base, new product development, and regional business development strategies.
Concentrating on cross-functional high impact projects across various group divisions, Agne is passionate about strategic product development stemming from understanding behavioural changes in the market and continuously evolving customer needs.
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 and managing a large team of Business Development Managers before moving into a more strategic business development role.
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.
Ann Mallinson
Director of Financial Control
Ann is Director of Financial Control at AJW Group, having initially joined the Group as Interim Finance Manager in September 2022. She is responsible for driving the Financial Reporting and Control Function ensuring legislative compliance and robust financial control.
Ann started her career at PricewaterhouseCoopers in Newcastle qualifying as a Chartered Accountant in 1998. She left the accountancy practice in 2000 and moved to the Southeast where she has worked in various financial accounting roles with her primary focus always being on compliance. Her experience spans both listed and private companies.
Outside of work, Ann enjoys walking and spending time with her family and friends.
ann.mallinson@ajw-group.com
LinkedIn
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.
David Miret Mora
Technical Director
Dean Willmore
Senior Manager Warehouse Operations
Donald Parsons
Data & Analytics Director
Evette Langford
Director of Commercial
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.
Dean Willmore
Senior Manager Warehouse Operations
As Senior Manager Warehouse Operations, Dean manages our warehouses at AJW HQ and AJW Malpensa. He is responsible for ensuring both warehouses remain compliant with industry regulations and that the inspected parts have the necessary conforming paperwork and are correctly despatched to our global customer base.
Dean joined AJW in 2015 as a 145 Inspector, working his way up to his current position and gaining extensive experience in material planning, forecasted predicted maintenance, procurement, generic warehousing, inspection of aircraft components, and Part 145 compliance. He is the Site Security Representative for our Known Consigner and works alongside AJW’s HSE Officer, to oversee the health and safety of the AJW staff.
When not managing our warehouses, Dean loves spending time with his son and daughter and attending any sporting event he can. His other big passion is aviation - which luckily, he can enjoy both in and outside of work!
Donald Parsons
Data & Analytics Director
Donald is a skilled IT professional with experience across a variety of industries and roles. Currently holding the position of Data & Analytics Director, he joined AJW Group in 2019 in the role of Data Warehouse Manager and then moved into the position of Data & Analytics Manager.
Donald is responsible for championing the responsible and strategic use of our data, playing a pivotal role in keeping both our company and the aviation industry soaring to new heights. He works with the extensive AJW Digital Team to ensure we embrace our digital transformation journey as a means to growth and expansion, while also ensuring the security of our systems and safeguarding our invaluable data.
Before joining AJW, Donald worked as an IT Consultant providing expertise in Business Analysis, Systems Support, PowerBuilder, SQL Server, and Oracle for a variety of clients including the International Labour Office, the World Health Organisation, Unilever, Tearfund, Nissan, Trace Solutions and Shop Direct.
He has a strong desire to constantly expand and improve his skills making full use of available resources.
When not securing and analysing our company data, Donald likes cooking (especially on his BBQ, which he does all year round), travelling, and keeping fit at a local boot camp.
Evette Langford
Director of Commercial
Evette has over 25 years of experience at AJW and has acquired extensive knowledge of all aspects of the business. Initially, she worked in Sales, transferring to the commercial department where she restructured and created AJW's successful commercial function.
In her current senior leadership role, Evette is the focal point for all commercial activities. She develops tailor-made customer solutions from a wide range of services (including cost-per-flight hour programmes). At the same time, her team manages the entire tender process from the Request for Proposal (RFP) to contract implementation. Evette ensures a dedicated commercial manager is assigned for ongoing contract management throughout this process.
Giles Manger
Digital Operations Director
Ian Parker
Digital Security Director
James Hill
Digital Transformation Director & Deputy CIO
Mark Elliot
Director of Inventory Strategy
Giles Manger
Digital Operations Director
Giles joined AJW Group in 2023 as Digital Operations Director. Based at our Headquarters in Slinfold, he leads the Digital Operations team to ensure the efficient support of our digital objectives and BAU targets.
With a strong background in IT delivery and project management, Giles has extensive experience in managing digital teams in several capacities, from support and operations to digital transformation.
He is driven by the completion of effective and focused delivery and loves nothing more than working with motivated individuals and teams across all sectors of an organisation. When he’s not leading digital operations, Giles enjoys spending time with his wife and three children. He is also an avid sports fan and enjoys keeping active. He has completed several triathlon races and is set to run in the 2024 London Marathon!
Ian Parker
Digital Security Director
Ian joined AJW in July 2023 as Digital Security Director, based at the AJW Headquarters in Slinfold, UK. With his wealth of knowledge, he leads AJW’s data privacy and security strategy, as well as ensuring good security is at the foundation of all our digital transformation projects.
Ian’s impressive career in digital security management spans more than 20 years, and he has worked for many nationally and globally renowned organisations. Some of his previous roles include; Chief Information Security Officer at Menzies, Head of Information Security, Risk and Compliance at Fujitsu UK and Ireland, and Head of Information Security at the Criminal Records Bureau.
When not at work, Ian likes taking time out to enjoy his lifelong love of cycling – even completing a triathlon or two!
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.
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.
Neil Kane
Director of Financial Planning & Analysis
Paul Dawson
Director of Procurement Strategic and Tactical Sourcing Management
Simon Merriott
Director of Solutions
Steve Stapleton
Business Process Improvement Manager
Neil Kane
Director of Financial Planning & Analysis
Neil Kane is AJW Group’s Director of Financial Planning and Analysis. He joined the company in 2019 as a Senior Finance Business Partner, then moved into the role of Head of Financial Planning and Analysis before taking up his current position.
As a Chartered Accountant with 15 years of professional experience, he leads the Financial Planning and Analysis (FP&A) team, which is responsible for planning, forecasting, and analytical activities that support major business decisions and financial performance.
Whilst primarily a function of the Finance team, you are just as likely to find his team working closely with other areas of the business to ensure their reported financials accurately reflect business activity. He and his team also ensure that Management within the organisation has visibility and understanding of the financial performance of their areas.
Prior to joining AJW, Neil worked within the Aviation industry at L3 Harris Technologies (Aircraft Simulators), and before this in Travel and Tourism at TUI Travel.
Outside of work Neil enjoys travelling, spending time with his family, and walking his two Miniature Schnauzers. He enjoys many sports with the most notable involvements in football, cricket, running, and, when time allows, golf.
Paul Dawson
Director of Procurement Strategic and Tactical Sourcing Management
Paul is AJW Group’s Director of Procurement Strategic and Tactical Sourcing Management. 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.
Steve Stapleton
Business Process Improvement Manager
As AJW’s Business Process Improvement Manager, Steve is responsible for identifying, planning, and implementing key improvements across the business to deliver the Group’s goals and vision for the future.
Steve joined AJW in April 2023, bringing an extensive operational background and over 30 years of experience as a senior leader in the retail, supply chain, and logistics industries. Applying the Lean Six Sigma and World Class Manufacturing approaches, he is a passionate change agent who enjoys working with individuals and teams to transform processes and deliver optimum performance.
He is adept at reviewing processes to reduce wastes, improve productivity, and lower costs while fostering a lean culture through the engagement and involvement of our people.
When he is not focused on business improvement, Steve enjoys spending time with friends and family and creating and building things. He is also an avid golfer, and season ticket holder at Brighton & Hove Albion.
Umit Caymaz
Managing Director, AJW Türkiye
Wasim Akhtar
Director of Engines
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!
Wasim Akhtar
Director of Engines
Wasim joined AJW in January 2019 as a Senior Powerplant Engineer based at the AJW headquarters in Slinfold, UK. He was then promoted to Technical Project Manager and later moved into the role of Engine Services Manager and is now Director of Engines. Partnering with airlines, OEMs, and MROs, Wasim's expertise lies in trading, fleet management, technical support during acquisitions, cost modelling, piece parts sales, repairs, deliveries and redeliveries, lease management, contract and technical document reviews, assessing compliance, and shop visit management.
After graduating from the University of South Wales with a Bachelor of Science degree in Aircraft Maintenance Engineering, he began his career as an Assistant Mechanic intern at General Electric. He gained further experience in the aviation sector at TES Aviation Group and Royal Aero GmbH where he held the roles of Powerplant Engineer. Dealing with maintenance services, asset management, and OWS while in these roles, his wealth of experience within aviation made him well suited to his positions at AJW Group where he is highly valued for his expertise and knowledge.
When not focused on his passion for engines and engineering, Wasim enjoys watching cricket and spending time exploring the woods and the beauty of nature with his wife and young family in West Sussex.
Agne Noden
Director of Business Development Strategy
Andy Colbran
Director of Customer Services
Ann Mallinson
Director of Financial Control
Agne Noden
Director of Business Development Strategy
As Director of Business Development Strategy, Agne focuses on market analysis and insights to help shape the AJW product portfolio, the targeting of our customer base, new product development, and regional business development strategies.
Concentrating on cross-functional high impact projects across various group divisions, Agne is passionate about strategic product development stemming from understanding behavioural changes in the market and continuously evolving customer needs.
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 and managing a large team of Business Development Managers before moving into a more strategic business development role.
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.
Ann Mallinson
Director of Financial Control
Ann is Director of Financial Control at AJW Group, having initially joined the Group as Interim Finance Manager in September 2022. She is responsible for driving the Financial Reporting and Control Function ensuring legislative compliance and robust financial control.
Ann started her career at PricewaterhouseCoopers in Newcastle qualifying as a Chartered Accountant in 1998. She left the accountancy practice in 2000 and moved to the Southeast where she has worked in various financial accounting roles with her primary focus always being on compliance. Her experience spans both listed and private companies.
Outside of work, Ann enjoys walking and spending time with her family and friends.
ann.mallinson@ajw-group.com
LinkedIn
Becky Newell
Director of Marketing
David Miret Mora
Technical Director
Dean Willmore
Senior Manager Warehouse Operations
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.
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.
Dean Willmore
Senior Manager Warehouse Operations
As Senior Manager Warehouse Operations, Dean manages our warehouses at AJW HQ and AJW Malpensa. He is responsible for ensuring both warehouses remain compliant with industry regulations and that the inspected parts have the necessary conforming paperwork and are correctly despatched to our global customer base.
Dean joined AJW in 2015 as a 145 Inspector, working his way up to his current position and gaining extensive experience in material planning, forecasted predicted maintenance, procurement, generic warehousing, inspection of aircraft components, and Part 145 compliance. He is the Site Security Representative for our Known Consigner and works alongside AJW’s HSE Officer, to oversee the health and safety of the AJW staff.
When not managing our warehouses, Dean loves spending time with his son and daughter and attending any sporting event he can. His other big passion is aviation - which luckily, he can enjoy both in and outside of work!
Donald Parsons
Data & Analytics Director
Evette Langford
Director of Commercial
Giles Manger
Digital Operations Director
Donald Parsons
Data & Analytics Director
Donald is a skilled IT professional with experience across a variety of industries and roles. Currently holding the position of Data & Analytics Director, he joined AJW Group in 2019 in the role of Data Warehouse Manager and then moved into the position of Data & Analytics Manager.
Donald is responsible for championing the responsible and strategic use of our data, playing a pivotal role in keeping both our company and the aviation industry soaring to new heights. He works with the extensive AJW Digital Team to ensure we embrace our digital transformation journey as a means to growth and expansion, while also ensuring the security of our systems and safeguarding our invaluable data.
Before joining AJW, Donald worked as an IT Consultant providing expertise in Business Analysis, Systems Support, PowerBuilder, SQL Server, and Oracle for a variety of clients including the International Labour Office, the World Health Organisation, Unilever, Tearfund, Nissan, Trace Solutions and Shop Direct.
He has a strong desire to constantly expand and improve his skills making full use of available resources.
When not securing and analysing our company data, Donald likes cooking (especially on his BBQ, which he does all year round), travelling, and keeping fit at a local boot camp.
Evette Langford
Director of Commercial
Evette has over 25 years of experience at AJW and has acquired extensive knowledge of all aspects of the business. Initially, she worked in Sales, transferring to the commercial department where she restructured and created AJW's successful commercial function.
In her current senior leadership role, Evette is the focal point for all commercial activities. She develops tailor-made customer solutions from a wide range of services (including cost-per-flight hour programmes). At the same time, her team manages the entire tender process from the Request for Proposal (RFP) to contract implementation. Evette ensures a dedicated commercial manager is assigned for ongoing contract management throughout this process.
Giles Manger
Digital Operations Director
Giles joined AJW Group in 2023 as Digital Operations Director. Based at our Headquarters in Slinfold, he leads the Digital Operations team to ensure the efficient support of our digital objectives and BAU targets.
With a strong background in IT delivery and project management, Giles has extensive experience in managing digital teams in several capacities, from support and operations to digital transformation.
He is driven by the completion of effective and focused delivery and loves nothing more than working with motivated individuals and teams across all sectors of an organisation. When he’s not leading digital operations, Giles enjoys spending time with his wife and three children. He is also an avid sports fan and enjoys keeping active. He has completed several triathlon races and is set to run in the 2024 London Marathon!
Ian Parker
Digital Security Director
James Hill
Digital Transformation Director & Deputy CIO
Mark Elliot
Director of Inventory Strategy
Ian Parker
Digital Security Director
Ian joined AJW in July 2023 as Digital Security Director, based at the AJW Headquarters in Slinfold, UK. With his wealth of knowledge, he leads AJW’s data privacy and security strategy, as well as ensuring good security is at the foundation of all our digital transformation projects.
Ian’s impressive career in digital security management spans more than 20 years, and he has worked for many nationally and globally renowned organisations. Some of his previous roles include; Chief Information Security Officer at Menzies, Head of Information Security, Risk and Compliance at Fujitsu UK and Ireland, and Head of Information Security at the Criminal Records Bureau.
When not at work, Ian likes taking time out to enjoy his lifelong love of cycling – even completing a triathlon or two!
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.
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.
Neil Kane
Director of Financial Planning & Analysis
Paul Dawson
Director of Procurement Strategic and Tactical Sourcing Management
Simon Merriott
Director of Solutions
Neil Kane
Director of Financial Planning & Analysis
Neil Kane is AJW Group’s Director of Financial Planning and Analysis. He joined the company in 2019 as a Senior Finance Business Partner, then moved into the role of Head of Financial Planning and Analysis before taking up his current position.
As a Chartered Accountant with 15 years of professional experience, he leads the Financial Planning and Analysis (FP&A) team, which is responsible for planning, forecasting, and analytical activities that support major business decisions and financial performance.
Whilst primarily a function of the Finance team, you are just as likely to find his team working closely with other areas of the business to ensure their reported financials accurately reflect business activity. He and his team also ensure that Management within the organisation has visibility and understanding of the financial performance of their areas.
Prior to joining AJW, Neil worked within the Aviation industry at L3 Harris Technologies (Aircraft Simulators), and before this in Travel and Tourism at TUI Travel.
Outside of work Neil enjoys travelling, spending time with his family, and walking his two Miniature Schnauzers. He enjoys many sports with the most notable involvements in football, cricket, running, and, when time allows, golf.
Paul Dawson
Director of Procurement Strategic and Tactical Sourcing Management
Paul is AJW Group’s Director of Procurement Strategic and Tactical Sourcing Management. 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.
Steve Stapleton
Business Process Improvement Manager
Umit Caymaz
Managing Director, AJW Türkiye
Wasim Akhtar
Director of Engines
Steve Stapleton
Business Process Improvement Manager
As AJW’s Business Process Improvement Manager, Steve is responsible for identifying, planning, and implementing key improvements across the business to deliver the Group’s goals and vision for the future.
Steve joined AJW in April 2023, bringing an extensive operational background and over 30 years of experience as a senior leader in the retail, supply chain, and logistics industries. Applying the Lean Six Sigma and World Class Manufacturing approaches, he is a passionate change agent who enjoys working with individuals and teams to transform processes and deliver optimum performance.
He is adept at reviewing processes to reduce wastes, improve productivity, and lower costs while fostering a lean culture through the engagement and involvement of our people.
When he is not focused on business improvement, Steve enjoys spending time with friends and family and creating and building things. He is also an avid golfer, and season ticket holder at Brighton & Hove Albion.
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!
Wasim Akhtar
Director of Engines
Wasim joined AJW in January 2019 as a Senior Powerplant Engineer based at the AJW headquarters in Slinfold, UK. He was then promoted to Technical Project Manager and later moved into the role of Engine Services Manager and is now Director of Engines. Partnering with airlines, OEMs, and MROs, Wasim's expertise lies in trading, fleet management, technical support during acquisitions, cost modelling, piece parts sales, repairs, deliveries and redeliveries, lease management, contract and technical document reviews, assessing compliance, and shop visit management.
After graduating from the University of South Wales with a Bachelor of Science degree in Aircraft Maintenance Engineering, he began his career as an Assistant Mechanic intern at General Electric. He gained further experience in the aviation sector at TES Aviation Group and Royal Aero GmbH where he held the roles of Powerplant Engineer. Dealing with maintenance services, asset management, and OWS while in these roles, his wealth of experience within aviation made him well suited to his positions at AJW Group where he is highly valued for his expertise and knowledge.
When not focused on his passion for engines and engineering, Wasim enjoys watching cricket and spending time exploring the woods and the beauty of nature with his wife and young family in West Sussex.
Agne Noden
Director of Business Development Strategy
Andy Colbran
Director of Customer Services
Agne Noden
Director of Business Development Strategy
As Director of Business Development Strategy, Agne focuses on market analysis and insights to help shape the AJW product portfolio, the targeting of our customer base, new product development, and regional business development strategies.
Concentrating on cross-functional high impact projects across various group divisions, Agne is passionate about strategic product development stemming from understanding behavioural changes in the market and continuously evolving customer needs.
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 and managing a large team of Business Development Managers before moving into a more strategic business development role.
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.
Ann Mallinson
Director of Financial Control
Becky Newell
Director of Marketing
Ann Mallinson
Director of Financial Control
Ann is Director of Financial Control at AJW Group, having initially joined the Group as Interim Finance Manager in September 2022. She is responsible for driving the Financial Reporting and Control Function ensuring legislative compliance and robust financial control.
Ann started her career at PricewaterhouseCoopers in Newcastle qualifying as a Chartered Accountant in 1998. She left the accountancy practice in 2000 and moved to the Southeast where she has worked in various financial accounting roles with her primary focus always being on compliance. Her experience spans both listed and private companies.
Outside of work, Ann enjoys walking and spending time with her family and friends.
ann.mallinson@ajw-group.com
LinkedIn
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.
David Miret Mora
Technical Director
Dean Willmore
Senior Manager Warehouse Operations
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.
Dean Willmore
Senior Manager Warehouse Operations
As Senior Manager Warehouse Operations, Dean manages our warehouses at AJW HQ and AJW Malpensa. He is responsible for ensuring both warehouses remain compliant with industry regulations and that the inspected parts have the necessary conforming paperwork and are correctly despatched to our global customer base.
Dean joined AJW in 2015 as a 145 Inspector, working his way up to his current position and gaining extensive experience in material planning, forecasted predicted maintenance, procurement, generic warehousing, inspection of aircraft components, and Part 145 compliance. He is the Site Security Representative for our Known Consigner and works alongside AJW’s HSE Officer, to oversee the health and safety of the AJW staff.
When not managing our warehouses, Dean loves spending time with his son and daughter and attending any sporting event he can. His other big passion is aviation - which luckily, he can enjoy both in and outside of work!
Donald Parsons
Data & Analytics Director
Evette Langford
Director of Commercial
Donald Parsons
Data & Analytics Director
Donald is a skilled IT professional with experience across a variety of industries and roles. Currently holding the position of Data & Analytics Director, he joined AJW Group in 2019 in the role of Data Warehouse Manager and then moved into the position of Data & Analytics Manager.
Donald is responsible for championing the responsible and strategic use of our data, playing a pivotal role in keeping both our company and the aviation industry soaring to new heights. He works with the extensive AJW Digital Team to ensure we embrace our digital transformation journey as a means to growth and expansion, while also ensuring the security of our systems and safeguarding our invaluable data.
Before joining AJW, Donald worked as an IT Consultant providing expertise in Business Analysis, Systems Support, PowerBuilder, SQL Server, and Oracle for a variety of clients including the International Labour Office, the World Health Organisation, Unilever, Tearfund, Nissan, Trace Solutions and Shop Direct.
He has a strong desire to constantly expand and improve his skills making full use of available resources.
When not securing and analysing our company data, Donald likes cooking (especially on his BBQ, which he does all year round), travelling, and keeping fit at a local boot camp.
Evette Langford
Director of Commercial
Evette has over 25 years of experience at AJW and has acquired extensive knowledge of all aspects of the business. Initially, she worked in Sales, transferring to the commercial department where she restructured and created AJW's successful commercial function.
In her current senior leadership role, Evette is the focal point for all commercial activities. She develops tailor-made customer solutions from a wide range of services (including cost-per-flight hour programmes). At the same time, her team manages the entire tender process from the Request for Proposal (RFP) to contract implementation. Evette ensures a dedicated commercial manager is assigned for ongoing contract management throughout this process.
Giles Manger
Digital Operations Director
Ian Parker
Digital Security Director
Giles Manger
Digital Operations Director
Giles joined AJW Group in 2023 as Digital Operations Director. Based at our Headquarters in Slinfold, he leads the Digital Operations team to ensure the efficient support of our digital objectives and BAU targets.
With a strong background in IT delivery and project management, Giles has extensive experience in managing digital teams in several capacities, from support and operations to digital transformation.
He is driven by the completion of effective and focused delivery and loves nothing more than working with motivated individuals and teams across all sectors of an organisation. When he’s not leading digital operations, Giles enjoys spending time with his wife and three children. He is also an avid sports fan and enjoys keeping active. He has completed several triathlon races and is set to run in the 2024 London Marathon!
Ian Parker
Digital Security Director
Ian joined AJW in July 2023 as Digital Security Director, based at the AJW Headquarters in Slinfold, UK. With his wealth of knowledge, he leads AJW’s data privacy and security strategy, as well as ensuring good security is at the foundation of all our digital transformation projects.
Ian’s impressive career in digital security management spans more than 20 years, and he has worked for many nationally and globally renowned organisations. Some of his previous roles include; Chief Information Security Officer at Menzies, Head of Information Security, Risk and Compliance at Fujitsu UK and Ireland, and Head of Information Security at the Criminal Records Bureau.
When not at work, Ian likes taking time out to enjoy his lifelong love of cycling – even completing a triathlon or two!
James Hill
Digital Transformation Director & Deputy CIO
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.
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.
Neil Kane
Director of Financial Planning & Analysis
Paul Dawson
Director of Procurement Strategic and Tactical Sourcing Management
Neil Kane
Director of Financial Planning & Analysis
Neil Kane is AJW Group’s Director of Financial Planning and Analysis. He joined the company in 2019 as a Senior Finance Business Partner, then moved into the role of Head of Financial Planning and Analysis before taking up his current position.
As a Chartered Accountant with 15 years of professional experience, he leads the Financial Planning and Analysis (FP&A) team, which is responsible for planning, forecasting, and analytical activities that support major business decisions and financial performance.
Whilst primarily a function of the Finance team, you are just as likely to find his team working closely with other areas of the business to ensure their reported financials accurately reflect business activity. He and his team also ensure that Management within the organisation has visibility and understanding of the financial performance of their areas.
Prior to joining AJW, Neil worked within the Aviation industry at L3 Harris Technologies (Aircraft Simulators), and before this in Travel and Tourism at TUI Travel.
Outside of work Neil enjoys travelling, spending time with his family, and walking his two Miniature Schnauzers. He enjoys many sports with the most notable involvements in football, cricket, running, and, when time allows, golf.
Paul Dawson
Director of Procurement Strategic and Tactical Sourcing Management
Paul is AJW Group’s Director of Procurement Strategic and Tactical Sourcing Management. 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
Steve Stapleton
Business Process Improvement Manager
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.
Steve Stapleton
Business Process Improvement Manager
As AJW’s Business Process Improvement Manager, Steve is responsible for identifying, planning, and implementing key improvements across the business to deliver the Group’s goals and vision for the future.
Steve joined AJW in April 2023, bringing an extensive operational background and over 30 years of experience as a senior leader in the retail, supply chain, and logistics industries. Applying the Lean Six Sigma and World Class Manufacturing approaches, he is a passionate change agent who enjoys working with individuals and teams to transform processes and deliver optimum performance.
He is adept at reviewing processes to reduce wastes, improve productivity, and lower costs while fostering a lean culture through the engagement and involvement of our people.
When he is not focused on business improvement, Steve enjoys spending time with friends and family and creating and building things. He is also an avid golfer, and season ticket holder at Brighton & Hove Albion.
Umit Caymaz
Managing Director, AJW Türkiye
Wasim Akhtar
Director of Engines
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!
Wasim Akhtar
Director of Engines
Wasim joined AJW in January 2019 as a Senior Powerplant Engineer based at the AJW headquarters in Slinfold, UK. He was then promoted to Technical Project Manager and later moved into the role of Engine Services Manager and is now Director of Engines. Partnering with airlines, OEMs, and MROs, Wasim's expertise lies in trading, fleet management, technical support during acquisitions, cost modelling, piece parts sales, repairs, deliveries and redeliveries, lease management, contract and technical document reviews, assessing compliance, and shop visit management.
After graduating from the University of South Wales with a Bachelor of Science degree in Aircraft Maintenance Engineering, he began his career as an Assistant Mechanic intern at General Electric. He gained further experience in the aviation sector at TES Aviation Group and Royal Aero GmbH where he held the roles of Powerplant Engineer. Dealing with maintenance services, asset management, and OWS while in these roles, his wealth of experience within aviation made him well suited to his positions at AJW Group where he is highly valued for his expertise and knowledge.
When not focused on his passion for engines and engineering, Wasim enjoys watching cricket and spending time exploring the woods and the beauty of nature with his wife and young family in West Sussex.
Agne Noden
Director of Business Development Strategy
Agne Noden
Director of Business Development Strategy
As Director of Business Development Strategy, Agne focuses on market analysis and insights to help shape the AJW product portfolio, the targeting of our customer base, new product development, and regional business development strategies.
Concentrating on cross-functional high impact projects across various group divisions, Agne is passionate about strategic product development stemming from understanding behavioural changes in the market and continuously evolving customer needs.
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 and managing a large team of Business Development Managers before moving into a more strategic business development role.
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.
Ann Mallinson
Director of Financial Control
Ann Mallinson
Director of Financial Control
Ann is Director of Financial Control at AJW Group, having initially joined the Group as Interim Finance Manager in September 2022. She is responsible for driving the Financial Reporting and Control Function ensuring legislative compliance and robust financial control.
Ann started her career at PricewaterhouseCoopers in Newcastle qualifying as a Chartered Accountant in 1998. She left the accountancy practice in 2000 and moved to the Southeast where she has worked in various financial accounting roles with her primary focus always being on compliance. Her experience spans both listed and private companies.
Outside of work, Ann enjoys walking and spending time with her family and friends.
ann.mallinson@ajw-group.com
LinkedIn
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.
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.
Dean Willmore
Senior Manager Warehouse Operations
Dean Willmore
Senior Manager Warehouse Operations
As Senior Manager Warehouse Operations, Dean manages our warehouses at AJW HQ and AJW Malpensa. He is responsible for ensuring both warehouses remain compliant with industry regulations and that the inspected parts have the necessary conforming paperwork and are correctly despatched to our global customer base.
Dean joined AJW in 2015 as a 145 Inspector, working his way up to his current position and gaining extensive experience in material planning, forecasted predicted maintenance, procurement, generic warehousing, inspection of aircraft components, and Part 145 compliance. He is the Site Security Representative for our Known Consigner and works alongside AJW’s HSE Officer, to oversee the health and safety of the AJW staff.
When not managing our warehouses, Dean loves spending time with his son and daughter and attending any sporting event he can. His other big passion is aviation - which luckily, he can enjoy both in and outside of work!
Donald Parsons
Data & Analytics Director
Donald Parsons
Data & Analytics Director
Donald is a skilled IT professional with experience across a variety of industries and roles. Currently holding the position of Data & Analytics Director, he joined AJW Group in 2019 in the role of Data Warehouse Manager and then moved into the position of Data & Analytics Manager.
Donald is responsible for championing the responsible and strategic use of our data, playing a pivotal role in keeping both our company and the aviation industry soaring to new heights. He works with the extensive AJW Digital Team to ensure we embrace our digital transformation journey as a means to growth and expansion, while also ensuring the security of our systems and safeguarding our invaluable data.
Before joining AJW, Donald worked as an IT Consultant providing expertise in Business Analysis, Systems Support, PowerBuilder, SQL Server, and Oracle for a variety of clients including the International Labour Office, the World Health Organisation, Unilever, Tearfund, Nissan, Trace Solutions and Shop Direct.
He has a strong desire to constantly expand and improve his skills making full use of available resources.
When not securing and analysing our company data, Donald likes cooking (especially on his BBQ, which he does all year round), travelling, and keeping fit at a local boot camp.
Evette Langford
Director of Commercial
Evette Langford
Director of Commercial
Evette has over 25 years of experience at AJW and has acquired extensive knowledge of all aspects of the business. Initially, she worked in Sales, transferring to the commercial department where she restructured and created AJW's successful commercial function.
In her current senior leadership role, Evette is the focal point for all commercial activities. She develops tailor-made customer solutions from a wide range of services (including cost-per-flight hour programmes). At the same time, her team manages the entire tender process from the Request for Proposal (RFP) to contract implementation. Evette ensures a dedicated commercial manager is assigned for ongoing contract management throughout this process.
Giles Manger
Digital Operations Director
Giles Manger
Digital Operations Director
Giles joined AJW Group in 2023 as Digital Operations Director. Based at our Headquarters in Slinfold, he leads the Digital Operations team to ensure the efficient support of our digital objectives and BAU targets.
With a strong background in IT delivery and project management, Giles has extensive experience in managing digital teams in several capacities, from support and operations to digital transformation.
He is driven by the completion of effective and focused delivery and loves nothing more than working with motivated individuals and teams across all sectors of an organisation. When he’s not leading digital operations, Giles enjoys spending time with his wife and three children. He is also an avid sports fan and enjoys keeping active. He has completed several triathlon races and is set to run in the 2024 London Marathon!
Ian Parker
Digital Security Director
Ian Parker
Digital Security Director
Ian joined AJW in July 2023 as Digital Security Director, based at the AJW Headquarters in Slinfold, UK. With his wealth of knowledge, he leads AJW’s data privacy and security strategy, as well as ensuring good security is at the foundation of all our digital transformation projects.
Ian’s impressive career in digital security management spans more than 20 years, and he has worked for many nationally and globally renowned organisations. Some of his previous roles include; Chief Information Security Officer at Menzies, Head of Information Security, Risk and Compliance at Fujitsu UK and Ireland, and Head of Information Security at the Criminal Records Bureau.
When not at work, Ian likes taking time out to enjoy his lifelong love of cycling – even completing a triathlon or two!
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.
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.
Neil Kane
Director of Financial Planning & Analysis
Neil Kane
Director of Financial Planning & Analysis
Neil Kane is AJW Group’s Director of Financial Planning and Analysis. He joined the company in 2019 as a Senior Finance Business Partner, then moved into the role of Head of Financial Planning and Analysis before taking up his current position.
As a Chartered Accountant with 15 years of professional experience, he leads the Financial Planning and Analysis (FP&A) team, which is responsible for planning, forecasting, and analytical activities that support major business decisions and financial performance.
Whilst primarily a function of the Finance team, you are just as likely to find his team working closely with other areas of the business to ensure their reported financials accurately reflect business activity. He and his team also ensure that Management within the organisation has visibility and understanding of the financial performance of their areas.
Prior to joining AJW, Neil worked within the Aviation industry at L3 Harris Technologies (Aircraft Simulators), and before this in Travel and Tourism at TUI Travel.
Outside of work Neil enjoys travelling, spending time with his family, and walking his two Miniature Schnauzers. He enjoys many sports with the most notable involvements in football, cricket, running, and, when time allows, golf.
Paul Dawson
Director of Procurement Strategic and Tactical Sourcing Management
Paul Dawson
Director of Procurement Strategic and Tactical Sourcing Management
Paul is AJW Group’s Director of Procurement Strategic and Tactical Sourcing Management. 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.
Steve Stapleton
Business Process Improvement Manager
Steve Stapleton
Business Process Improvement Manager
As AJW’s Business Process Improvement Manager, Steve is responsible for identifying, planning, and implementing key improvements across the business to deliver the Group’s goals and vision for the future.
Steve joined AJW in April 2023, bringing an extensive operational background and over 30 years of experience as a senior leader in the retail, supply chain, and logistics industries. Applying the Lean Six Sigma and World Class Manufacturing approaches, he is a passionate change agent who enjoys working with individuals and teams to transform processes and deliver optimum performance.
He is adept at reviewing processes to reduce wastes, improve productivity, and lower costs while fostering a lean culture through the engagement and involvement of our people.
When he is not focused on business improvement, Steve enjoys spending time with friends and family and creating and building things. He is also an avid golfer, and season ticket holder at Brighton & Hove Albion.
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!
Wasim Akhtar
Director of Engines
Wasim Akhtar
Director of Engines
Wasim joined AJW in January 2019 as a Senior Powerplant Engineer based at the AJW headquarters in Slinfold, UK. He was then promoted to Technical Project Manager and later moved into the role of Engine Services Manager and is now Director of Engines. Partnering with airlines, OEMs, and MROs, Wasim's expertise lies in trading, fleet management, technical support during acquisitions, cost modelling, piece parts sales, repairs, deliveries and redeliveries, lease management, contract and technical document reviews, assessing compliance, and shop visit management.
After graduating from the University of South Wales with a Bachelor of Science degree in Aircraft Maintenance Engineering, he began his career as an Assistant Mechanic intern at General Electric. He gained further experience in the aviation sector at TES Aviation Group and Royal Aero GmbH where he held the roles of Powerplant Engineer. Dealing with maintenance services, asset management, and OWS while in these roles, his wealth of experience within aviation made him well suited to his positions at AJW Group where he is highly valued for his expertise and knowledge.
When not focused on his passion for engines and engineering, Wasim enjoys watching cricket and spending time exploring the woods and the beauty of nature with his wife and young family in West Sussex.