Assistance services provider OmniServ has appointed Samantha Berry to the newly created position of head of innovation and regulatory compliance.
Berry has extensive experience in the aviation industry with 29 years at British Airways working in key operational roles at both London Gatwick and Heathrow. In 2014, she joined OCS Group UK as contract manager at Gatwick, moving to the new role of accessibility manager in 2016.
During her career with OCS, she worked tirelessly to improve the airport experience for passengers with hidden disabilities. While at Gatwick, she championed changes in working practices which saw the airport being recognized as the first in the UK to be classified as autism friendly in November 2016, as well as receiving an Alzheimer’s Society Dementia Innovation Award, again in November 2016.
She has now joined OmniServ with a remit to drive service enhancements across the company’s people with reduced mobility (PRM) operations.
Antony Marke, group managing director of OmniServ, said, “OmniServ has been focusing on improving the experience for PRM passengers for some time now. All passengers deserve to be treated with respect as they journey through the airport, no matter their personal status; and Samantha’s appointment is proof of just how seriously we take the challenge. She has an impressive track record in working with airlines, airports, regulators and PRM representatives to improve all aspects of the airport experience.
“We have been investing heavily in new equipment and training, particularly for our PRM staff, and will continue to do so going forward,” continued Marke.
“We have also been working closely with leading disability rights groups to ensure we are up-to-date with current thinking and that we have the skills and tools to help anyone who finds the airport or flying a daunting prospect, whatever the reason, and Samantha will be tasked with ensuring that continues to be the case.”
Berry said, “I am delighted to be joining OmniServ at such an exciting time. We have a great opportunity to continue to collaborate with our partners across the UK to continue to improve air travel accessibility for all passengers.”
Berry will discuss best practice for assisting air travelers with cognitive issues, including autism, developmental disabilities, ADHD, dementia and PTSD, during a panel session at Passenger Terminal Expo and Conference 2018, taking place in Stockholm, Sweden, from March 20-22.
To book you place at Passenger Terminal Expo 2018, click here now.
