Jamie Chestnutt

Director of Engineering and Supply

Jamie’s early Royal Navy career included two years as a search and rescue pilot in Cornwall, several operational tours as an engineer and pilot, and four years as a test pilot on a broad range of military helicopters.

Jamie’s personal career highlight was his role in the Royal Navy as Director of Engineering and Logistics for the Commando Helicopter Force, managing a large team of people, aircraft and vehicles to support global operations. Jamie introduced two new helicopter types to active service in the Royal Navy and in 2017, was awarded the Ed Dunning Trophy for the Most Significant Contribution to Maritime Aviation across the Royal Navy, for managing the design, safety, logistics, certification, approvals, and training of staff to send two of these aircraft to sea for the first time.

Swapping aircraft for rollercoasters, Jamie was responsible for all technical elements at Chessington World of Adventures, including engineering a suite of rides and attractions, managing the hotels, camp site and leisure club, as well as being responsible for animal enclosures and buildings across the resort.

Outside of work, Jamie has been actively involved in charities his whole life. He is a ski instructor for disabled teenagers and injured service personnel, as well as participating in sailing and fundraising with the Tall Ships Youth Trust. He is also supporting the Royal Aeronautical Society in developing the membership standards for professional engineers and other aviation professionals and supporting young people starting their engineering careers.