CHANNEL Islands Air Search has appointed a “worthy successor” to lead its operational management team.
Nick Griffin’s appointment as CIAS’s accountable manager follows the retirement of “dedicated” incumbent John Fitzgerald.
Mr Griffin has been part of the search and rescue charity for five years and has flown many searches and crew training flights.
He will now be responsible for overall operational and safety oversight at CIAS, leading the operational management team, reporting to the charity’s trustees and ensuring recruitment, retention and training standards remain high.
Mr Griffin said he felt “very privileged” to be taking up his new position.
“I’m really looking forward to the variety of the role, having more dealings with our partner agencies and having greater oversight of our operations at a macro level,” he continued.
“Above all, my main aim is to maintain and build on the positive culture we have among the crew.
“It’s a really friendly, professional team, and that’s something I want to ensure continues.”
Mr Fitzgerald, who is taking a step back from volunteering for the charity after 31 years of service, said: “The team at CIAS is delighted to welcome Nick to his new role as accountable manager.
“With his background in client liaison and proven management skills, he is ideally suited to the position and will be a worthy successor. ”
He added: “Nick is a calm and considerate member of the crew, but he also shows determination and decisiveness when tough decisions are required.
“I am confident that the service will continue to thrive under his leadership.”
CIAS trustees thanked Mr Fitzgerald for his “dedicated leadership and steady hand”.
“His commitment to safety, training and teamwork has left a strong legacy that Nick and the team will build on,” they added.
CIAS was called on 32 times last year – an average of one call-out every 11.4 days and an increase from the 16 call-outs recorded the year before.
Its 20-strong crew complement includes pilots, search directors and observers – all volunteers – who collectively gave over 2,050 hours of voluntary service during the year.
