One of ACL’s Independent Directors, Deb Bowen Rees, recently joined our Coordination team alongside Nominated Director Brendan Kelly (TUI) as part of a Board development programme designed to strengthen understanding and connection across the business.
With a career spanning the RAF, executive leadership roles and her time as CEO of Cardiff Airport, Deb brings extensive aviation and transport expertise to ACL’s Board. The programme aims to give Board members a deeper understanding of ACL’s operations and the people behind them. As Deb explained, ACL’s structure means Board members do not always have the same opportunities for day-to-day interaction found in other organisations, making purposeful engagement especially important.
Before the visit, Deb and fellow Board members completed theory sessions led by Stuart Finlayson, covering airport coordination and its vital role within the aviation industry. The office visit provided an opportunity to see this knowledge in practice.
During the day, Deb spent time with Head of Coordination Fernando de Freitas and colleagues from across the business. Reflecting on the experience, she highlighted the value of seeing ACL firsthand. Observing customer interactions, learning about operational processes and hearing directly from employees gave her a greater appreciation of the expertise, dedication and teamwork that drive ACL’s success.
“I was amazed at what we managed to pack in,” she said, describing the experience as both insightful and rewarding.
The visit also allowed colleagues to learn more about the Board’s role. During an open Q&A session, employees asked questions about governance, strategic decision-making and how the Board supports the company’s long-term success. These conversations helped strengthen understanding and transparency across the organisation.
For Deb, this kind of engagement benefits everyone. Board members gain a clearer understanding of the business, while employees gain insight into how decisions are made and the experience Board members bring. Having previously attended ACL company away days, Deb stressed the importance of continuing these opportunities.
“It shouldn’t be a one-off. Maybe once a year, Board members should be encouraged to do it, because it really is invaluable.”
The visit reinforced the importance of staying connected. Effective Board members do more than attend meetings; they take time to understand the business, its people and its challenges. By encouraging meaningful conversations and shared learning, initiatives like this help strengthen relationships across ACL and ensure the company continues to benefit from the collective expertise of its people and leadership.
A huge thank you to Deb for spending the day with the Coordination team and sharing her insights. The feedback from colleagues has been overwhelmingly positive, and we look forward to building on these connections in the future.
