BBGA speaking on the International Operators Conference panel at NBAA-BACE last week.
The panel titled ‘Ask the International experts’ provided the operators present the opportunity to quiz the panellists from several national trade associations on current challenges.
BBGA Managing Director Lindsey Oliver was honoured to join the panel.
Melanie Daglish
Melanie is Director of Aviation at ITIC, responsible for the development and growth of their professional indemnity product for the aviation and aerospace sector. ITIC is a specialist mutual insurer providing professional indemnity insurance to the global transport industries.
With nearly 19 years’ experience in professional liability insurance, Melanie has spent over 15 years at ITIC. During this time, she has played a central role in adapting ITIC’s well-established marine professional indemnity product for the aviation market and has led the development of a portfolio that now supports more than 350 aviation and aerospace professionals worldwide. These professionals provide their services across the general aviation and leasing sectors.
Melanie’s experience spans underwriting and claims handling, and she has historically managed client relationships across multiple European jurisdictions, including the UK, France, Spain and Switzerland. Her work provides a unique perspective on the risks, challenges and emerging exposures facing professionals across the aviation sector.
She is a regular speaker and delegate at international aviation industry events and actively contributes to industry dialogue through risk management publications, including contributions to the BBGA website. Melanie was elected to the BBGA Board of Directors in 2026 and is committed to supporting professionalism and sustainable growth across the general aviation sector.
Ben Newman
Ben Newman is Head of Commercial for Inflite the Jet Centre, having joined the company in January 2024 following a distinguished career as a Logistics Officer in the Royal Air Force. During his time in the RAF, Ben undertook an operational tour in Afghanistan, where he further developed his leadership and organisational skills, managing vital operations in challenging environments.
Since moving into the private sector, Ben has focused his efforts on Inflite the Jet Centre, one of the Group’s leading companies, and has quickly become a highly valued and driven member of the team. His strategic thinking and dedication to creating new business opportunities have been key to the company’s growth and ongoing success. Resulting in Bens efforts being recognised through being awarded the British Business and General Aviation Association (BBGA) Excellence in Aviation, The Next Generation Award for 2024.
Ben Newman is actively involved in both the General Aviation and Commercial Aviation sectors, building strong relationships with key stakeholders, identifying emerging market opportunities, and leading business development initiatives.
Aircraft Sales & Acquisitions, Duncan Aviation
James Carroll is part of Duncan Aviation’s Aircraft Sales & Acquisitions team, representing international clients in the purchase and sale of business aircraft. Based in the UK, and with the backing of Duncan Aviation’s global network, market intelligence, and comprehensive in-house capabilities, he supports clients through the complexities of business jet transactions.
Prior to this, James held the position of Head of MRO Sales for Gama Aviation, overseeing the Sales team within the group for Base and Line maintenance on both fixed wing and rotary aircraft. Working from Gama Aviation’s main maintenance facility at Bournemouth Airport in the UK, its Farnborough Headquarters, and its new flagship UAE facility in Sharjah, James also represented Gama Aviation at industry events and promoted the brand worldwide. During his time at Gama Aviation, James sold both small and heavy maintenance checks, aircraft upgrades, and oversaw a number of pre-purchase Inspections for buyers, sellers, and brokers.
Previously, James worked for Jet Support Services, Inc. (JSSI®), for 14 years implementing and overseeing sales initiatives, developing relationships, and promoting JSSI programs and services throughout Western Europe. He also worked in Account Management advising on financial and contractual problems and overseeing the transfer of programs at aircraft re-sale.
James started his aviation career at BAA Heathrow where he was promoted to Duty Manager of Terminal 4 and then held the position of Crisis Manager for the online travel company lastminute.com. James holds a BA Honours Degree in French and Spanish, is an accredited Senior Aircraft Appraiser with the American Society of Appraisers, serves on the Board of Directors for the British Business & General Aviation Association, and enjoys playing tennis and spending time with his family in his spare time.
Alison Chambers heads boutique aviation communications agency Emerald Media, based at Fairoaks Airport, Chobham. She supported the comms of regional, LCC operators and OEMs, before widening out expertise into business aviation in the early 2000s.
Alison leads a UK team supporting an international client base in a variety of disciplines and Emerald is typically at the heart of innovative stories – in alternative fuel, air charter, airline and technology developments – and now, the electrification of aviation with US client magniX.
Evolving to The Emerald Network, with associates in Germany, The Middle East, South Africa, Australia, Singapore and North America – the latter under Emerald Media USA founder Kelly Murphy, Alison is pleased to build on the company’s greatest strength. Clients and journalists value Emerald’s second to none industry contacts and ability to bring likeminded companies together. Alison is proud to be an active board member of the British Business and General Aviation Association (BBGA), leading media liaison and shaping event content.
My name is Paul Cremer, and this marks my 42nd year working within the business and general aviation industry. Over this time, I’ve had the privilege of overseeing a diverse array of sector activities, ranging from aircraft charter and management to air ambulance services, ground operations, air traffic control, airport management, technology implementation, and the outsourcing services I currently manage.
In my role focused on delivering advisory, technology, and outsourcing services to aviation customers, I handle a wide spectrum of responsibilities. This includes overseeing International Trip Support, Operations Control Centre Services (OCC), Continuing Airworthiness Management Service (CAMO), Airworthiness Reviews, ARC Services, Aircraft Delivery and Re-delivery Support Services, Maintenance Coordination Services including AOG, Tech Ops (Maintenance Control Centre), and managing myairops software products. As the Head of Aviation Delivery, I lead the customer-facing delivery of Technology & Outsourcing products and services for the market, drawing upon a wealth of knowledge, expertise, and industry connections within Gama Aviation’s Technology and Outsourcing Strategic Business Unit.
My journey into Business and General Aviation began during my teenage years while still in school. I was fortunate enough to be welcomed into the industry, starting at a flying club, and later working at the Air Traffic Services Unit at Blackbushe Airport. There, I maintained the ATC Movement Logs in the Control Tower during weekends, solidifying my passion for aviation. Upon completing my schooling, I seized opportunities at Fairoaks Airport, where I began as Ground Crew while pursuing my Aerodrome Flight Information Service Officer’s license. Advancements in my career led me to the role of Air Traffic Services Manager.
Since joining Gama Aviation in 1996, I’ve held various positions, including Operations Manager (Post Holder), Operations & Commercial Manager, Commercial Manager, Operations Delivery Manager, Head of Business Aviation Delivery, and currently, Head of Aviation Delivery. This role encompasses Gama Aviation Group’s Gama Aviation, myairops, and FlyerTech companies.
In 2023, I was honoured to be invited to serve as the Chair of the Operations Working Group for the British Business & General Aviation Association. This opportunity allows me to contribute to industry initiatives within BBGA’s membership of nearly 200 industry companies, focusing on challenges such as regulatory compliance, Air Services Agreements, technological advancements, workforce development, operational matters, and sustainability.
Based in London, Jason Hayward, general manager for Universal Aviation U.K. is an expert on ground support and operations into the United Kingdom. He’s been with Universal since 1997 and has more than 25 years’ experience combined in aviation handling and operations. A native of the U.K. and veteran of the Royal Air Force, Jason has been instrumental in helping establish Universal Aviation offices around the globe. Jason is also an expert on coordinating operations and handling for special events and was Universal’s point person for the Kings Coronation, London Bridge and the 2012 Games in London. He’s shared his insight on operations and special events with many industry publications.
James is a Client Executive Director (General & Business Aviation) at Gallagher Specialty. James joined the aviation insurance sector in 1983 and has worked for various Lloyd’s of London broking houses including a six month secondment to the Swiss Aviation Insurance Pool based in Zurich. His specialities are in the Mid to Large Sized General Aviation and Regional Airline risks dealing with a variety of clients worldwide ranging from individual business and private fixed wing and helicopter owners to managed fleets/AOC Holders (business and airline commercial operations), MRO, FBO, OEM and Airport Owners and Operators.
James also sits on the events and membership committee of the British Business & General Aviation Association and attends the Operations Working Group and Corporate Aviation Safety Executive meetings. James is a regular panellist at the Isle of Man Aviation Conference.
He is a Freeman of the City of London, a Freeman of the Honourable Company of Air Pilots and Fellow of the Royal Aeronautical Society.
James Hardie is an experienced professional in the aviation sector, with a distinguished career that spans over three decades. His journey began in the RAF, where he was a pilot before transitioning to commercial aviation.
Over the years, James has shifted his focus towards the service and delivery of software solutions within aviation, showcasing his adaptability and commitment to technological advancements in the field. With a BA in Politics and an MSc in Organizational Psychology, James possesses a deep understanding of the social dynamics within organizations and the broader industry. This academic background, combined with his extensive experience, enables him to approach industry challenges with a unique perspective.
As a board member of the British Business and General Aviation Association (BBGA), James is at the forefront of addressing the pressing issues facing the business aviation community today. He is passionate about fostering collaboration among regulators, operators, and maintenance providers to find innovative solutions that benefit the industry as a whole.
James is also a dedicated Krav Maga instructor and an advocate for healthy living, demonstrating his commitment to personal development and the well-being of others. His leadership extends beyond the aviation industry, as he actively contributes to his community through various initiatives.
As the host of the upcoming panel, James is eager to facilitate meaningful discussions that will drive the industry forward, emphasizing the importance of working together to overcome challenges and achieve collective goals.
Aoife is an internationally recognised aviation lawyer with expertise across private, corporate, and commercial aviation. She advises a global client base—including ultra-high-net-worth individuals, corporations, aircraft operators, financiers, lessors, manufacturers, and private owners – on all aspects of aircraft acquisition and sale, financing, and regulatory compliance. Aviation Week & Space Technology magazine named her as one of the Top 10 Leaders in business aviation in Europe. Aoife is Chair of the British Business and General Association who liaise closely with Government, regulatory bodies and industry on matters affecting the business aviation community. Aoife has been independently nominated by her clients, contacts and peers for inclusion in all exclusive industry and legal guides for her work in aviation law and her contribution to the industry, including Chambers; Legal 500: Finance; Euromoneys Women in Business; Expert Guides: Aviation; International Who’s Who of Aviation Finance Lawyers; Best Lawyers; Who’s Who Legal; and Lawyers World Leading Lawyer Awards.
Aoife is regularly invited to speak at international aviation conferences and events. She writes for and has been quoted in all major leading publications including the Financial Times, BART, Fly Corporate, Airfinance Journal and Altitudes. Aoife was admitted as a Solicitor in Ireland in 1997, England and Wales in 1998 and admitted to the Supreme Court of the Cayman Islands in 2002.
Alex has worked in business aviation for over 30 years, across a variety of management, operational, sales and consultancy roles. Starting from the Operations desk at Oxford Airport in 1992 where he gained his Private Pilot Licence, he’s gone on to manage and set up a variety of aircraft operations across a number of jurisdictions. CEO since 2013 Alex has developed the Klyne Aviation Group of businesses based at Norwich Airport, which includes the SaxonAir aviation businesses. An Honours graduate of Birmingham University, he has a Diploma in Management Studies from Oxford Brookes University and is an alumnus of the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses programme and Unicorn School. He is also Vice Chair of BBGA. Alex was a Department for Transport Aviation Ambassador from 2024-2025, supporting their Generation Aviation programme, aimed at attracting diverse and talented people into the aviation sector. With decarbonisation an industry priority, Alex is proactively engaged in taking practical action towards this, both within SaxonAir and across the wider industry. This includes operation of electric aircraft, campaigning for greater SAF update, and evolving infrastructure to support new cleaner technologies.
Marc Bailey has spent his career in aviation and has worked in most areas of our industry with scheduled airlines, MRO’s, military contract support and latterly with associations, government, and its agencies.
Marc currently represents your position in Europe (even post Brexit) – as President of ECOGAS (European Council of General Aviation Support) which maintains a voice with EASA. All the major member states are represented on the ECOGAS board. With EASA restructuring its meetings with industry, ECOGAS is now well positioned to represent our position in all areas following industry partnerships with the European Continued Airworthiness Group and with the Association for Remotely Piloted Aviation Services (ARPAS).
Marc is chair of the UKASF (United Kingdom Airworthiness Strategic Forum) as part of an initiative to develop Aviation Services across all aviation activities. The UKASF pulls together airlines, MROs, Rotary, Drones, and commercial GA bodies to work with CAA and DfT. The objective is for industry to take the lead to drive strategic issues to benefit all parties. We are well positioned after six years to continue our good work for industry. With the re-established role of Chief Surveyor in the CAA we have a good focal point to undertake this work with the regulator including regular discussions and a full industry day with the CAA each year.
Marc chairs the CAA Finance and Services Forum, which allows industry in the UK to discuss the financial plans for the CAA and look closely at the services being delivered to industry. This is a new and valuable new platform for all parties.
Marc has formed an alliance with, ARPAS, AOPA, BHA and BBGA so that we can strengthen our voice under a joint ‘GA 4 Biz’ banner. This alliance is working to do everything possible to represent the industry’s business interests with UK government and to help realise the Government’s desire to make UK General Aviation a Global Leader in a post Brexit environment.
The next Generation initiatives with industry and government have continued to develop with the retention platform now evolving into the “Aviation Skills Recruitment Platform” . The platform now not only offers a vehicle for those offering and seeking posts in aviation, it also provides pathways with its TalentView portion seeking to provide pathways for new entrants into our sector.
The recruitment platform is being further developed to include training opportunities across a wide range of providers, from government agencies through academic bodies. Getting our next generation activities right in the UK over the next couple of years is our single most important issue which we in aviation must grab with both hands. Moving into 2026 we are seeking to further develop the pathways to enter aviation, and this effort is being supported with development of multimedia platforms with the organisation Metaverse. This multimedia approach is being developed so that it is more relatable to the next generation of people wishing to join aviation in a myriad of roles.
In the role of President (honorary) Marc can support the BBGA in many aspects and continue to ensure that we retain the right connections across industry, with regulators in the UK, regulators in the EU and wherever possible help hold government and its departments to account using normal channels, and where necessary utilise All Party-Political Groups for aviation.
Deputy Accountable Manager UK & Head of Ground Operations, TAG Aviation Europe
Sarah Towerzey started out in life as a management accountant at Texas Instruments before deciding that her future career would lie within the aviation industry. Her job with Gulf Air as ground staff and then Operations Controller gave her the opportunity to travel to many different countries and this is what kindled her passion for flying. She joined TAG Farnborough Airport in 2007, working in the Operations Department, and then in 2008 she transferred to TAG Aviation as a dispatcher before progressing through the ranks to become the Head of Ground Operations and Nominated Person for both TAG UK and TAG Malta AOCs and subsequently to her current role of Deputy Accountable Manager UK.
Within her role, she finds private aviation much more of a challenge than commercial aviation; the rules are more complex, yet just as strict, and within an ever changing landscape. There is literally never a dull moment. She really enjoys the rewards that working in private aviation bring and could not imagine doing anything else. She also feels very fortunate to be working for one of the market leaders in the industry.
Heather Gordon is Legal Director at Martyn Fiddler Aviation. Heather joined the team in 2013 having previously practiced within a leading Isle of Man law firm’s aviation practice since 2007. Heather holds graduate and post graduate degrees in law and studied internationally for her MBA.
Coming from an aviation family, Heather is devoted to the industry and has on occasion been described as a ‘spotter’. Her enthusiasm is translated into her work and as a result she is often asked to speak at conferences and seminars internationally on Isle of Man corporate and aviation matters.
Graduating from Harper Adams University in 1999 Lindsey Oliver started her career in a graduate trainee role in animal feed sales in the agriculture industry. She then moved on to two different positions in trade associations before starting at British Business and General Aviation Association, BBGA in 2009. She progressed to her role as Managing Director in 2021 where she works alongside CEO Marc Bailey and board members reacting to and resolving member and industry issues together with the successful execution of BBGA events and industry meetings throughout the year.
In 2016 Lindsey oversaw and implemented the dual agreement arrangements with European Business Aviation Association which proposed that UK BBGA members have automatic membership to EBAA. This strengthened the relationship between the two association despite the BREXIT referendum the same year. This agreement remains in place to date.
Lindsey managed the association throughout the COVID pandemic and BREXIT negotiations which saw an unprecedented demand and support from members as business and general aviation organisations adjusted to the new conditions.
As MD Lindsey works closely with Government Departments, Civil Aviation Authority, and senior industry leaders on a weekly and sometimes daily basis.
BBGA has approximately 180 member companies. These range from FBO’s, Operators, Legal Firms, and Support Organisations involved in the business aviation space. BBGA is closely linked with other aviation trade associations including European Business Aviation Association (EBAA) International Business Aviation Council (IBAC), British Helicopter Association (BHA), Air Operators and Pilots Association (AOPA), Association of Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (ARPAS-UK). Lindsey is also a Council member of the General Aviation Safety Council (GASCo).
