Wavionix Software announces the appointment of Derek McLauchlan as its new Chairman of the Wavionix Aeronautical Advisory Group.

McLauchlan's career has focused on the satellite, computer measurement and ATC industries.  He is the former Secretary General of Civil Air Navigation Services Organisation (CANSO), where he established the organisation from its foundation three years ago. He achieved recognition for CANSO by ICAO, the European Commission and Eurocontrol, and developed a base of 46 members worldwide.

Prior to that appointment he was Chief Executive Officer of National Air Traffic Services (NATS).  Where he oversaw the creation of NATS in April 1996, as a wholly owned subsidiary of the CAA with a turnover of £500M per annum and a staff of 5100.  During his time at NATS air traffic grew by 30%, whilst staff and costs where reduced by 20%. 

He introduced several efficiency initiatives including restructuring the business into separate commercial units for key unit revenue earners, the introduction of performance measures which exacted marked savings to airlines, a reduction in the percentage of flights delayed, and carried out an extensive management of an investment programme of £150M to modernise outdated systems.

During his period at NATS, McLauchlan was a board member for the UK Civil Aviation Authority for seven years.  He has also held senior positions with ICL, Marconi Space & Defence Systems, the European Space Research Organisation and the British Aircraft Corporation.

McLauchlan brings a wealth of aviation experience to Wavionix, the market leaders in software tools for procedures design applications.  His expertise covers strategy analysis and implementation, the definition and development of appropriate technology, managing the necessary organisational changes, and the delivery of those benefits to customers and shareholders.

Commenting on his appointment, Derek McLauchlan said; "I am very pleased to be working with this young and exciting company and look forward to contributing to its continuing success." 

Chief Executive Officer, Wavionix Software Ltd, Patrick Aisher, says; " Derek's experience and knowledge will be essential to Wavionix, which is why we have asked him to Chair our Aeronautical Advisory Group.  This body advises the company on issues facing aviation administrators and regulatory changes that may affect our customers.

We are honoured and delighted to have him as part of the team, and I am confident that with his assistance and expertise, we can encourage future clients of the benefits of safe efficient procedures, and the enhanced benefits of using Wavionix award winning software to develop our current market position from over 60 Wavionix users worldwide, to over 100 in the next couple of years."

July 2001