Ian is an experienced and energetic aviation executive with a track record of delivering game-changing and sustainable performance improvements.
MBA-qualified, with a strong technical background supplemented by vast supply chain management, procurement, sales and business development experience, together with expert knowledge of the commercial aviation aftermarket industry.
Ian has worked for several airlines, in positions covering technical, operational, supply chain management, procurement and commercial responsibilities, and has filled the Technical Director and Continuing Airworthiness Postholder role for Flybe, Wizz Air and Thomsonfly. Ian also spent six years working as a free-lance consultant advising numerous airlines in the buying and selling of aftermarket MRO services. Most recently, Ian was employed as Director of Commercial Strategy for AJW, the world’s leading independent aviation spares management business, with responsibilities including marketing, business development, pricing, sales conversion and key account management. Ian has an un-rivalled insight into the commercial aviation after-market.
Chairman
Charlie has over 30 years of global experience in the low-cost airline industry, having encountered virtually every challenge. He transformed Ryanair into a profitable low-cost carrier, founded Tiger Airways in Singapore, consulted for Webjet in Brazil and assisted Ryanair’s LaudaMotion acquisition. He brings outstanding industry knowledge, commercial awareness, and strategic management.
Non-Executive Director
Raj has some 20 years experience in risk management disciplines. Advised various governments, companies, authored and trained many thousands in managing risks.
Chief Executive and Founder
Nino brings extensive financial and management expertise to flypop, with a career spanning both Formula 1 and the City of London. After earning an MEng in Aeronautical Engineering, he worked at Team Lotus F1, then transitioned to bond trading with Lehman Brothers. He later co-founded flypop, driving the project's success since 2017.
CTO and Founder
Bobby is a seasoned Chief Technology Officer with over 20 years of experience in capital markets and eCommerce. Known for his open, straightforward leadership, he fosters transparency and collaboration within teams. His leadership style encourages innovation, accountability, and trust, empowering teams to solve complex challenges. He is s also a founding director of Flypop.
Chief Operating Officer - AOC Accountable Manager
Hitesh Patel is a seasoned aviation start-up specialist with over 30 years' experience in operations, financial planning, and business development. Formerly JetBlue’s Technical Director, Kingfisher Airways’ COO, and Veling Aviation's CEO, he now leads Blu3Aero consultancy, advising Riyadh Air on operational strategy and regulatory compliance for airline innovation.
Chief Commercial Officer
Mike is a results-driven C-suite executive with extensive experience in commercial leadership and investment management. Since 2022, he has served as Head of Legal at flypop, recently becoming Chief Commercial Officer, playing a key role in driving business growth and operational excellence across various sectors.
Chief Financial Officer (FCCA)
With over 30 years in the aviation industry, Paul is an accomplished CFO and FCCA fellow. He has held senior leadership roles at major airlines, specialising in financial and strategic planning, risk management, and team leadership, driving profitability and operational excellence throughout his career.
Executive Manager
Adele is the Executive Manager of flypop, with a diverse background in tourism, aviation, and pharmaceuticals. Starting her career at Ryanair, she held various roles that refined her customer service, operational, compliance, licencing, and recruitment skills. Committed to safety and operational excellence, Adele excels in teamwork, communication, and multitasking.
Chief Investment Officer
Chris, a Canadian financial expert, brings over 30 years of global experience in advising and fundraising for private and public companies. His background spans several top-tier investment banks, including UBS, and prior business ventures in India, making him a valuable asset to the team.
Head of Business Development - MENA
Richard has nearly 40 years of experience with Fortune 500 bigtech and fintech companies. He co-founded Redair, launched Saudi Arabia's SADAD payments platform, and collaborates with flypop while splitting his time between the UK, UAE, and KSA
Financial Controller
Rebecca McKenzie is a finance professional with 20+ years of experience, specialising in the travel industry. She excels in financial management and strategic planning, optimising performance and fostering growth through collaborative leadership and tailored solutions.
Digital Marketing and Communications Director
Natalie brings over 20 years of senior marketing experience to Flypop, developing impactful brand strategies for companies ranging from global giants to startups. A proponent of data-driven approaches, she aligns marketing initiatives with business objectives while enhancing audience engagement for lasting connections.
Director of India Operations
Mahendra brings over 30 years of expertise in building UK-India cultural and business partnerships. His leadership skills, deep understanding of Indian culture, and commitment to community service have earned him numerous awards, including the Bharat Gaurav Award. He excels in fostering cross-cultural collaboration and developing meaningful connections between UK and Indian entities.
Head of ICT
Gary is an experienced IT professional, formerly a Senior Technician at The Beckett Group and IT Manager at Atkinson Bolton Consulting. Currently, he serves as an IT Consultant for Bridge Partners Ltd, managing diverse support contracts and gaining extensive expertise in Microsoft software, networking, and data protection. He has also contributed pro bono on various projects.
