Ellen Almeida

Experienced and detail-oriented manager with over 20 years supporting senior management across industries.

Skilled in managing ATCO/ATCA licensing, regulatory compliance, and medical monitoring programmes. Known for streamlining complex processes, ensuring operational readiness, and delivering high-quality administrative support.

Strong organisational skills, effective multitasking, and a proven ability to work independently or as part of a team in high-pressure environments.

Proven Team Player contributes effectively within a team environment, encouraging open and honest communication

Strong Customer Service Skills with a proven ability to develop a long-term relationship based on trust, credibility and strong people management skills

Nils-Olof 'Solle' Svan

Well-seasoned and experienced leader with more than 50 years in the aviation business. Innovative and passionate about developing the business readiness to meet the constantly increasing demands. Long experience at all management levels in international and multicultural business environments. Specialising in Air Traffic Management, systems, business continuity, training, safety management and strategy.

Effective Leader delivering excellent results consistently in the ever-demanding aviation operational environment.

Accomplished Communicator of oral and written presentation with the ability to adapt content and language and meet the needs of the audience.

Excellent Interpersonal Skills experiences in influencing, facilitating, negotiating and liaising with clients at all levels.

Associated Consultants

Streamlining processes to enhance operational performance

John Valenzia is an Associate Consultant at Aviantis, specialising in ATM Change Management and Programme Management. With an illustrious career spanning over 50 years in ATM Operations and Management Positions, John is renowned for his expertise in driving successful change initiatives and overseeing complex projects.

Holding degrees in Economics and a Master of Business Administration, John has a robust academic foundation that enhances his analytical and strategic capabilities. Additionally, as a certified Project Management Professional from the Project Management Institute, he brings a rigorous, standardized approach to project execution and management.

A committed mentor, John has played a crucial role in the professional development of UAE nationals, many of whom have ascended to management positions within Dubai Air Navigation Services. This mentorship reflects his dedication to fostering leadership and supporting the growth of the next generation of industry leaders. Outside of his professional duties, John is keenly interested in exploring the intersection of AI technology and project management, continually seeking to leverage innovations to improve project outcomes.

Graham Burfield has over 35 years of experience in air traffic management in the UK, Europe and the Middle East.

Beyond the operational delivery of air traffic control services throughout that time at units including Dubai and Luxembourg, Graham has been involved in many aspects of the wider ATM world. He played a key role in the establishment of the ATC unit at Al Maktoum International - from a greenfield plan in 2008, through its commencement of live operations in 2010 to laying the foundations for the success story it is today. Key areas of involvement as Head of ATC operations and Manager ATC included:

- Compilation of operational requirements for ATC/Airport tools and HMI including SMGCS, ATM, VCCS, EFPS

- ATM equipment evaluation, selection, adaptation and implementation.

- Evaluation of remote digital tower concepts

- Liaison with consultants and construction companies regarding VCR design and facilities.

- Liaison with airport operators on design of airport operating procedures and capacity enhancements

- Manpower recruitment, planning and management

- Collaboration with consultants regarding the airport masterplan

- Collaboration with consultants regarding airspace design and procedures including simulation

- Planning and stakeholder engagement related to the commencement of passenger operations

- Planning, stakeholder engagement and ATC supervision of the Dubai Airshow 2013 and 2015

Graham was an operational controller in Dubai as recently as June 2024 and is now looking forward to working with international partners to support their own success stories.