Sweden-based Savback Helicopters has engaged Stephen Mitchell as head of sales for the UK and Ireland. Mitchell joins commercial director Rick Andrew and both will be based at the company's newly opened facilities at the Nottingham Heliport in the UK.

Mitchell brings with him 25 years of experience in civil aviation sales. Following 12 years' service in the Royal Air Force, he began a career in helicopter sales, specialising in transacting Robinson and Leonardo Helicopters. This included 17 years with Sloane Helicopters. Following this, he worked in both business jet and commercial airline sales in cooperation with Aura Aviation and JetBrokers. With an additional seven years in the primary aviation markets, he brings a deep understanding of how the fixed wing and rotary markets complement each other.

“Savback Helicopters has an impressive history with many years' experience selling new and pre-owned helicopters globally, and I am excited to join the team," says Mitchell. "The recent announcement of Savback's new, UK-based customer facility and its appointment as sole distributor for new production helicopters covering the UK regions makes it a formidable presence in the UK.”

“We are very proud to add such a well known name to the team," adds Savback CEO Reja Savback. "Stephen's experience and impressive background from both helicopter and fixed wing sales will be truly valuable for the company and its long-term expansion plans. This addition allows us to build an even more solid foundation in the UK and Ireland.”