News Release

The ACA appoints Derek Thomson and Emily Williams as board members

January 18, 2021:

The Air Charter Association (The ACA) today announced the arrival of two new board members, Derek Thomson and Emily Williams, who bring over 45 years' worth of aviation experience between them. The new appointments will help steer The ACA in supporting its members with guidance on compliance and best practice.

Derek Thomson, board member, The ACA, says: “I am very excited to be appointed to the board of The ACA. Having worked in aviation for over 25 years, I feel I have a lot to offer and look forward to being part of the association in what is an extremely interesting albeit challenging time for our industry.”

Derek will be continuing his role as commercial director and accountable manager for Air Charter Scotland Europe, a global private jet operator, alongside his duties as a board member for The ACA. During his time at Air Charter Scotland, he has been involved in the company's transition from piston twin aircraft and turboprops to today's all jet fleet. At the age of 19 he obtained his fixed-wing Private pilot's licence, where his passion for aviation began and led him into roles in rotary and fixed-wing aircraft operations and sales, as well as FBO airport handling and operations.

Emily Williams, board member, The ACA, says: 'I'm looking forward to being a member of The ACA board and supporting the existing team and members to drive forward our industry at this unique time.'

Emily has spent the majority of her career in private aviation, with her first aviation job being with NetJets Europe. Her role consisted of leading the UK team and latterly as the board sales director for the European business. After 10 years, she joined forces with a former NetJets colleague to found I&W Aviation, an independent private aviation advice company.

Kevin Ducksbury, chairman of  The  ACA, adds: “I am very pleased to welcome both Emily and Derek to the board of the association. Their appointments further strengthen the board's capabilities in the areas of aircraft operating and aviation broking. At a time when our industry is facing some of the most difficult challenges ever experienced, we felt it the right step to grow and strengthen our board, to enable us to continue to support the air charter industry as much as possible for the future.”

Earlier this month, The ACA announced the appointment of Glenn Hogben as chief executive. Glenn joined The ACA in 2008 and was elected to the non-executive board in 2017, after years of support for the association. He previously held the position of deputy chair and was instrumental in creating the new broker qualification course.