Emphasising the importance of attracting young people into aviation, The British Business General Aviation Association (BBGA) was pleased to announce Ben Newman, Group Business Development Manager at Inflite, The Jet Centre, as recipient of its 2024 Excellence in Aviation – Next Generation award. This category recognises the achievements of outstanding next-gen professionals who have made a significant impact in their business aviation role. Ben accepted the accolade from Gavin Thompson, Senior Regional Sales Manager Worldwide at Gulfstream who were the premier awards sponsor at the Association’s Christmas Drinks Reception, held at the Little Ship Club in London last week. The event was attended by some 150 business aviation industry guests.
Ben joined Inflite in 2023 after seven years in the Royal Air Force, serving as Logistics Officer, a role which included a tour of duty in Afghanistan. He joined the Civil Airhead Duties (CAD) Department based out of Northolt, which took him to Inflite. On leaving the MoD, Ben secured a settlement placement at Inflite in September 2023. It led to a permanent role of Group Business Development Manager and he was recently appointed as Business Development Manager for Inflite the Jet Centre.
Pauline Monksfield, CEO and Deputy Accountable Manager at Inflite The Jet Centre commented: “Since joining us nine months ago, Ben is now overseeing a Business Development Team. His enthusiasm and desire to learn about the industry is second to none. He has forged new customer relationships and developed existing ones. A good manager and excellent team player, Ben’s impact on the team was evident from the start. We look forward to seeing him grow and develop his skills even further.”
BBGA Chair Aoife O’Sullivan commented: “We congratulate Ben on this award and wish him every success with his business aviation career. I would also like to recognise all the exceptionally talented nominees who participated in this award.”
Highly commended in the ‘The Next Generation’ Award included: Nicola-Jane Sellars, Luxaviation’s Group Sustainability Manager, who also serves as Chair of the Air Charter Association’s (ACA) NextGen Group, a member of its Sustainability and Innovation working group and recipient of the prestigious Sir Michael Marshall Award for Sustainability in Aviation 2022. Also commended were Kerry Baldwin, Farnborough Airport’s Service Coordinator, who led the planning, preparation and co-ordination for Farnborough International Airshow 2024; Mathea Head, Gama Aviation’s Sales and Marketing Manager, for driving new business growth and enhancing brand awareness for Gama and FlyerTech. Alex Hughes, TAG Aviation Limited, Office Coordinator, was also lauded for continuing to exceed expectations in her role. Alex is the face of TAG Aviation Limited and has a passion for helping colleagues and peers, as well as organising and raising money for charity. Colleague Billy Cook, Apprentice, TAG Aviation Limited was also praised for his strong work ethic, passion for learning, and a remarkable ability to adapt to the fast-paced demands of TAG’s operation. Saffah Bashir, Level 3 Aircraft Maintenance Apprentice BSUK, also demonstrated exceptional talent, dedication, and a proactive approach. Saffah, who trained at London Biggin Hill Airport, has excelled in every aspect of her apprenticeship, and individually raised over £10,000 for various charities. She is an ambassador for women in engineering.
