As a leader with extensive practical experience and qualifications in heritage management of community organisations and collections, I am committed to advocating for greater recognition and support for the aviation heritage sector. My career spans 32 years, beginning as an Architect specialising in Building Conservation, which evolved into a role as a heritage consultant advising individuals, councils, and government departments. More recently, I expanded my development as a leader through the completion of a Master’s Degree in Cultural Heritage in 2021, became a Certified Community Director, a member of the Australian Institute of Corporate Directors since 2018, and am currently undertaking the ICDA Diploma of Governance, and the Leading for Transformation course.Raised in a family with a longstanding connection to the aviation industry that began in 1915 with the formation of De Havilland Aircraft Company in the United Kingdom, my grandfather apprenticed under Charles Kingsford Smith to become one of Australia’s most respected aircraft engineers and trainers. He developed a significant private collection of Australian military aircraft alongside his wife Verna Thomas and my Uncle Alan Thomas.This legacy is continued through my professional achievements. After successfully advocating for retaining a historically significant Douglas DC-2 airframe in Albury and founding the Uiver Memorial Community Trust, I have served as a director of that organisation for 10 years. Additionally, I currently hold positions such as President of the Aviation Museums National Network and member of the Operational Heritage Australia advocacy group, dedicating time to many organisations that aim to ensure aviation heritage in Australia is preserved.My leadership philosophy centres around integrity, collaboration, and ethical governance. I focus on mentoring and developing future leaders and use my experience to contribute to the success and growth of the sector.In my current roles, I oversee multiple responsibilities and teams, developing and implementing strategic initiatives and achieving milestones. I strive to foster a collaborative, effective work environment that drives continuous performance and success.