Founder & Executive Director at AccessFirst InitiativeAs the Founder and Executive Director of the AccessFirst Initiative, I lead a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to transforming accessibility and inclusivity across various sectors. Recognising a critical gap in accessibility standards, I established AccessFirst to develop and implement the AccessFirst Certification.Key Responsibilities:• Leadership: Guide the strategic direction and operations of the AccessFirst Initiative, ensuring alignment with our mission to make accessibility and inclusivity the norm.• Innovation: Promote inclusive innovation by encouraging businesses to design and develop products and services that meet high accessibility standards.• Certification: Oversee the AccessFirst Certification process, ensuring rigorous standards are maintained and that certified services continue to uphold their commitment to accessibility.• Advocacy: Advocate for the importance of accessibility in compliance with global standards and legislation, enhancing market differentiation and supporting ESG compliance for businesses.• Collaboration: Build strategic partnerships with businesses, government agencies, and advocacy groups to amplify the impact of our accessibility initiatives.Mission:• To successfully launch the AccessFirst Initiative addressing a critical need for consistent accessibility standards.• To foster a community dedicated to inclusivity, benefiting both consumers and businesses.• To establish AccessFirst as a trusted authority in accessibility, influencing positive change in various sectors.My journey through life has led me to this point. With the experience I have gained, I am now equipped to undertake this project and drive meaningful change. Join us in making a significant impact on accessibility and inclusivity.

Leveraging a Lifetime of Experience for Enhanced Accessibility: A Personal StatementIn my career spanning over five decades, I have amassed a wealth of experience across various industries, including aviation, real estate, construction, fund management, and Fintech innovation. This diverse background has endowed me with a broad perspective and a unique skill set, allowing me to adapt and thrive in different environments. My extensive global travel has further enriched my understanding of diverse cultures and practices, which is crucial for developing universally applicable accessibility standards.At 66 years old, I bring a level of wisdom and insight that is invaluable in identifying barriers and designing inclusive solutions. My success in various ventures demonstrates my ability to deliver results and drive impactful projects. Moreover, my experience positions me as a mentor and leader who can guide younger team members and foster a collaborative, inclusive environment.My life experiences have uniquely prepared me for a career in accessibility. My observational skills enable me to notice barriers and issues in different environments, and my user-centric approach, honed through developing websites and financial technologies, underscores the importance of accessibility. My global travel and various industry experiences provide practical insights into the challenges faced by diverse user groups.I am passionate about leading the EA Accessibility Certification Standards project. My vision is to create and implement innovative standards that address the needs of all users, including those with disabilities. I am committed to making technology and services accessible to everyone, fostering a more inclusive society. I believe my extensive experience and dedication make me uniquely qualified to deliver the EA standards and drive this initiative forward.

Whilst I no longer fly for a living my Commercial flying experience hugely contributes to my professional life today. The discipline required, the agility and process management are skills that served me equally as a pilot and today as an innovator.

Chairman of Viola Money which is a privately held company, that was first established in Vienna, Austria in 2012. Viola has evolved from initially an asset management company, and moved into the FinTech arena.Personally designed Viola Wallet (V-Wallet's) electronic wallet which has been long time in coming to market, however feel we have an outstanding product. Viola Money is authorised by the FCA as and AEMI.

· Became attached to a Vienna law firm and Family Office lead by one of Europe’s fore most financial lawyers.· Developing certain unique and esoteric strategies for the firm and their clients.· Working independently under self direction on a project by project basis.

· Led the companies to a listing on the New York Stock Exchange.· Appreciating and then augmenting the company business model in the light of newlegislation and implementation guidelines for the use of Biofuel and theirderivatives.· Most especially directed the company focus to the previously untapped areas of theEuropean market.Allied

· Founder and key individual behind the Bay Pointe Project to redevelop part of theCardiff Bay Area in the United Kingdom.· The company’s core strength was the development of residential type projects andthe occasional Mixed Use development, combining some commercial retail as asmall part of a Residential Project.· As Managing Director was responsible for the guidance and implementation througha highly complex design and planning process.· Identifying sites and opportunities that would fall within the possibilities of AlliedDevelopments influence and abilities.

· From clean start up to successful Public Limited Company within three years.· A sub-surface construction company, specializing in the installation of pipelinesand electricity cables for both the Gas and Electricity Industries.· Exploiting and opportunity in that sector created by the massive expansion of cable delivery and methodology.

· M&N’s core business was the installation of cable and telephony networks across the United Kingdom. At its peak the company employed in excess of 2500 field operatives laying up to 250KM of cable each week.· Responsible both for the management and efficient operation of the entire workforce of some 2500 labouring and skilled workers.· Also responsible for the interaction with both customers and local governmentofficials. A great test of any managerial people skills!

· Upon leaving The Parachute Regiment I undertook initially a sales role and rapidly progressed to director and managerial positions in three different construction companies