Geoff Shearer's Impact on Oceania's Aviation Sector: A Strategic Overview

Geoff Shearer, a leader in aviation and business development, is making waves in the Oceania region

As the head of new business development and customer satisfaction for AJW Group, Geoff is responsible for nurturing and expanding key customer relationships for the world-leading independent supply chain integrator to maximise the potential of the company’s strategic positioning.

With a career that began in the heart of the UK's aviation industry, Geoff’s journey has been impressive. He started his professional life with an Engine & Airframe apprenticeship at RAE Farnborough, a renowned aviation centre.

This formative experience laid a solid foundation for his technical knowledge and hands-on expertise. His commitment to his craft was further honed during his tenure at Dan Air Engineering Services, where he embraced what he describes as his "second apprenticeship." His time in Hampshire, Gatwick, and Paris equipped him with a global perspective and a thorough understanding of the complexities of aviation maintenance and engineering.

In 1991, Geoff embarked on an overseas adventure that allowed him to diversify his skill set beyond the aviation sector. His adaptability and eagerness for professional growth saw him successfully transition into team supervision, business development, and sales roles. These experiences broadened his expertise and deepened his understanding of business operations, making him a versatile leader with a unique blend of technical and commercial acumen.

Returning to the UK, Geoff joined British Midland at Heathrow, a role that included a significant posting to CDG in Paris. Here he continued to demonstrate his leadership abilities and deepen his international experience.

In 1999, Geoff’s career took a significant turn when he joined Air New Zealand Engineering Services in Christchurch, marking the beginning of a long and impactful tenure that solidified his strong connection to New Zealand and his deep commitment to the Oceania region. Over more than two decades, Geoff played a pivotal role in driving operational excellence and business transformation, showcasing his ability to manage complex operations and lead large teams with agility and ambition.

"During his impactful tenure at Air New Zealand Engineering Services, Geoff managed large-scale operations, driving operational excellence and business transformation."

During his tenure at Air New Zealand, Geoff held several senior roles, each of which honed his capabilities in managing large-scale operations and driving growth. As the Senior Manager of Components & Production Support, he oversaw C-category operations under the 145 and 148 manufacturing standards, managing more than twenty workshops and over 200 staff members across Auckland and Christchurch. His leadership ensured the delivery of top-tier MRO (Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul) and airline operation support services, reinforcing the operator’s reputation for excellence in the global market.

Prior to that, Geoff served as the Senior Manager of Components, where he was responsible for the entire components business at Air New Zealand, including APU (Auxiliary Power Unit) Services, Calibration, and a robust support services team. His efforts in this role were critical in securing NZCAA, EASA, and FAA 145 approvals, demonstrating his expertise in regulatory compliance and operational management.

His ability to manage high-volume operations was also evident in his earlier role as Components Operations Manager in Auckland, where he oversaw essential workshops like Wheels and Brakes, Safety Shop, Electromechanical, and Avionics. His leadership ensured these workshops supported not only Air New Zealand but also a global clientele, including major Cost Per Flight Hour (CPFH) providers.

In addition to his operational roles, Geoff demonstrated his commercial acumen as the 777 Sales Project Manager, where he coordinated the sale of Boeing 777-200ER aircraft. This experience highlights his strategic thinking and ability to navigate complex transactions, skills that contribute to his continuing and growing success at AJW Group.

"Now with AJW Group, Geoff is leveraging his strategic insight and leadership skills to expand the company’s business and customer base in the Oceania region."

Geoff’s ability to maintain and grow key commercial relationships is invaluable in his role with AJW where his experience managing engineering contracts with the Virgin Group of Companies showcases his talent for building and sustaining long-term partnerships.

His peers and colleagues speak highly of his capabilities. One collaborator, who worked closely with Geoff during a significant transformation period, describes him as a "collaborative leader and true professional," highlighting his instrumental role in driving business change and managing the delicate balance between innovation and operational demands. Another colleague praises Geoff’s experience in contract development, commercial relationship management, and regulatory compliance, noting his "engaging, inclusive, and authentic" approach.

Geoff’s deep-rooted experience combined with his strategic insight and leadership skills, uniquely equips him to expand the Group’s business and customer base in the Oceania region.