Meet the Team
A collective of career pilots, maritime specialists, and strategic advisors dedicated to bridging the gap between aviation standards and the luxury environment.
The Operational Core
Our management and logistics team provides the strategic engine for HeliRiviera, ensuring fiscal integrity, regulatory rigour, and the fluid coordination of global assets.
Nigel Watson
Founder & Instructor
A pioneer in yacht-based aviation and former Royal Navy officer, Nigel provides strategic oversight for helicopter acquisition, helideck consultancy, and operational risk audits. He is a globally recognized advisor who focuses on building the relationship of trust between the principal, the yacht, and the helicopter operation.
Catherine Pardini
Managing Director
With over 35 years in the aeronautical industry and a background in long-haul and private jet operations, Catherine provides the administrative leadership that has guided HeliRiviera for over two decades. She oversees all aspects of global operations, ensuring that crew training and client support are delivered with absolute consistency and discretion.
Emma Watson
Business Development
Emma specialises in high-value asset oversight and strategic planning, utilising her background in international business to solve complex logistical issues across global borders. An award-winning figure in the aviation community, she spearheads special projects and optimizes workflows to ensure clarity and cohesion in high-stakes operations.
Ludmilla Cuzenard
Training Coordinator
Ludmilla brings a background in International Business and experience managing commercial AOC flight operations to the development of HeliRiviera’s maritime training division. She focuses on structuring and scaling both onboard and shore-based training solutions, ensuring that operational systems are both disciplined and service-oriented.
The Instructional Cadre
Our trainers translate rigid aviation protocols into practical, real-world drills tailored to the specific constraints of the yacht or estate.
Jonathan Mutch
Lead Instructor | ATPL(H), FI, FE
A former Royal Navy pilot with over 30 years of shipborne helicopter experience, Jonathan has operated in environments ranging from polar regions to the world’s most advanced superyachts. As an Ocean Yachtmaster and author of numerous Ship Helicopter Operations Manuals, he is a definitive authority on the technical integration of maritime and aviation procedures.
Jonny Greenall
Instructor | ATPL(H), FI, FE
Jonny brings over 25 years of experience and 8,500 flight hours to HeliRiviera, serving as a highly respected Flight Instructor and Examiner. Based in Mallorca, he leverages his extensive background in advanced instruction and flight testing to deliver training that meets the highest international commercial aviation standards.
Olivier Marsanne
Instructor| ATPL(H), FI
Olivier is an active VIP helicopter pilot with over 4,500 flight hours and a background as a French Navy officer and flight instructor. Currently commanding flight operations onboard private mega-yachts, he specializes in providing HLOs and deck crews with tailored instruction focused on calm leadership and situational adaptability in demanding environments.
Join our Team
HeliRiviera is built on pedigree and precision. If your background aligns with our uncompromising standards, please submit your professional credentials for future consideration.
Instructional Excellence
Active VIP pilots and maritime safety specialists with a passion for building instinctive competency in elite crews.
Strategic Oversight
Management and logistics professionals capable of navigating the complex intersection of international regulations and private wealth.
Mission Support
Detail-oriented coordinators and technical staff based at our Cannes Mandelieu (LFMD) Hub.