Mandy Hickson

Former RAF Fast-Jet Pilot | Leadership, Risk Management & High-Performance Teamwork Expert, Independent

Leadership and Management | High Performance, Risk Management, Emotional Intelligence

Mandy Hickson

Biography

Mandy Hickson is a former Royal Air Force fast-jet pilot and a leading expert in high-performance leadership, risk management, and team dynamics. As one of the first women to fly the Tornado GR4 on the front line, she completed 45 missions in conflict zones, gaining deep expertise in decision-making under pressure. Today, she draws on her operational experience to help organizations navigate complexity and build resilient, high-performing teams. As a Human Factors facilitator, Mandy brings insights from aviation safety, communication, and collaboration to enhance leadership effectiveness in business and beyond. Her keynote sessions address critical themes such as calculated risk-taking, situational awareness, inclusive leadership, and cultural transformation. Mandy is also the author of the bestselling memoir An Officer, Not a Gentleman and a TEDx speaker. Known for her compelling storytelling and practical takeaways, she inspires audiences to embrace challenge, lead with confidence, and perform with clarity under pressure.