Doug joined FLY4 Airlines as Chief Financial Officer in January 2024, inspired by the rare opportunity to build a new ACMI airline — in a sector he believes will play a central role in the years ahead.
“The aviation sector has always been quick to adapt and innovate through disruption — whether facing a global pandemic, supply chain constraints, or labour shortages,” Doug says. “Where ACMI solutions were once seen as tactical, they are now viewed as strategic — giving airlines the flexibility to meet demand without long-term financial commitments.”
What sets FLY4 apart, Doug believes, is “its seamless integration with customers, paired with unwavering quality and disciplined economics.”
Leading FLY4’s Finance Function
Doug is proud of how quickly FLY4 moved from concept to launch, with operations beginning in March 2024. He credits this momentum to a passionate, expert team that brings the company’s values and vision to life every day.
“We’ve built something entirely new and are still learning and evolving,” Doug says. “That’s what makes it exciting — there’s always a new challenge and a chance to shape something meaningful.”
As CFO and Company Secretary, Doug balances strategic oversight, compliance, and financial leadership — ensuring FLY4 remains financially sound and structurally robust as it scales. And when time allows, Doug enjoys diving into a spreadsheet.
Leadership Grounded in Listening
Doug’s leadership style mirrors the airline itself: fast-paced, collaborative, and grounded in the details. He references leadership thinker Simon Sinek’s advice to “be the leader you wish you had.” For Doug, that means listening closely, learning from the team and working towards shared goals.
“I’ve always believed that asking for help is a strength,” Doug says. “No one has all the answers — and I’ve learned the most by being open to guidance and asking questions. With the benefit of hindsight, this prepared me best for the setup phase at FLY4.”
A Career Built on Curiosity and Complexity
Doug’s path into finance was shaped early on by a love of problem-solving and puzzles — a curiosity that led him to accountancy.
“Training as a Chartered Accountant at KPMG allowed me to channel my curiosity — building the ability to quickly grasp complex issues and deliver practical solutions.”
Inspired by Ireland’s rich aviation history and the dynamic nature of the industry, Doug joined Aer Lingus over a decade ago — a move that sparked a long-term passion.
He credits his time there, and the people he worked alongside, with shaping a mindset of persistence and precision.
“I was fortunate to be surrounded by thoughtful, experienced colleagues who encouraged me to keep asking questions, challenge assumptions, and weigh up every option — always pushing for the best outcome for both the business and its people.”
Beyond the numbers
In his working life, Doug finds satisfaction in seeing the team turn abstract ideas into real, functioning parts of the business.
Outside of work, he recharges by exploring Dublin’s parks and beaches with his wife, Claire, and their two dogs, Toby and Milly — a ritual that, he says, keeps his thinking sharp and his energy grounded.
Navigating the future
“Aviation has always been at the forefront of innovation — and that spirit of transformation will be essential moving forward.”
He sees that, in the short term, where many structural challenges exist and customer and airline preferences are evolving, ACMI will become even more essential:
“The pressures on airlines — cost, capacity, climate — aren’t going away. ACMI gives carriers room to breathe, adapt, and test new markets without long-term risk”
In the longer term, he sees growing demands for modernisation, sustainability, and climate accountability reshaping the industry:
“Airlines that embrace innovation while maintaining operational and financial discipline will be best placed to lead in this evolving landscape.”
Doug’s calm, thoughtful leadership and strategic clarity are helping lay the foundations for a financially and culturally resilient airline. In an industry that has always been at the forefront of innovation and reinvention, his steady presence will be vital as the airline reaches new heights.
Advice for Aspiring Finance and Aviation Professionals
Doug believes that the future of aviation depends on attracting and developing the next generation of talent.
“While we’re fortunate that aviation offers a wide variety of roles — each uniquely rewarding — the industry’s continued innovation will depend on our ability to engage and nurture future talent.”
His advice to those starting out in finance or aviation is both practical and encouraging:
“Don’t be afraid to try different paths – your first job doesn’t have to be perfect. Along the way, ask for help. And if you can, find a colleague, mentor or partner who will challenge you to get better every day.”
Most of all, he emphasises:
“You don’t need to get it right the first time. What matters is that you keep learning. Growth takes time — and with consistency and discipline, which are skills in themselves, it will come.”