A highly experienced leader, engineer and aviation safety improvement specialist with substantial project and change management credentials. An acknowledged expert in both continuing and type airworthiness regulations and their associated safety management systems gained from 35 years experience as a senior military engineer officer.
Expertise and capability
Ian’s expertise lies in the ability to not just understand the airworthiness regulations, but more importantly, their actual intent. He then advises on the most efficient and effective manner to implement this intent, specifically tailored to suit each clients’ unique requirements.
A demonstrable capability to deliver against challenging objectives in a multi-stakeholder and dynamic environment. Ian has delivered significant airworthiness and maintenance management enhancements that have been recognised by the award of several CEO level commendations. He was truly honoured to be awarded an OBE in the Queens Birthday Honours List 2015 for completely overhauling the way in which the MOD Tornado Project Team conducted safety management which significantly underpinned the airworthiness of the Type.
Career background and experience
Ian has an MSc in supportability engineering and is a Chartered Engineer.
Prior to joining Baines Simmons in May 2017, Ian was the senior airworthiness advisor, policy and assurance lead for the RAF’s Chief Air Engineer. Working with and influencing the Military Regulator he developed RAF policy for the way in which continuing airworthiness and quality management were conducted pan RAF. He has been the deputy Type Airworthiness Authority for the Tornado fleet and was the first Tornado Continuing Airworthiness Manager. He has amassed significant knowledge and experience in maintenance, risk-based decision making and airworthiness management during his 35 years as an aviation safety professional.
