At a Glance: Rachel Mullery of Avolon

Jetrader spoke with Rachel Mullery, senior transaction counsel at Avolon, about what she likes about the industry, the most challenging part of her profession and more. 

Jetrader: What do you like most about the aviation industry?

Rachel Mullery (RM): Avolon’s role as an aircraft lessor is to connect capital with our customers and help them to bring the social and economic benefits of global travel to more people. We’re also playing a major role in financing the transformation of the global fleet to lower emissions, new-technology aircraft. To be a part of all this, even in a small way, is an important motivator for me.

We’re in an ever-evolving industry where there are rarely any dull moments. Whether it’s securing new aircraft orders or helping an airline expand its network, there is always a new challenge and opportunity that stretches you to be your best.

Jetrader: What is the most challenging part of your profession?

RM: As a senior transaction lawyer, at any one time, I am leading several leasing, sales and financing deals with tight deadlines. We pride ourselves on our fast execution, and this is helped by the deep relationships we have with airlines and trading counterparties, but there are a lot of balls in the air at any one time!

You have to be organized and disciplined but also work as a team player. What’s amazing is the way our global team works across functions and time zones to deliver results. It requires flexibility and to seek creative solutions that will accommodate many different stakeholders. That’s a challenge but also part of what makes it exciting.

Jetrader: Have you had mentors in your career who have helped you progress?

RM: Looking for mentors and being brave enough to ask for advice is a key tool in your career development. I’ve been amazed by how willing people are to help, and it’s a privilege when you find they give you their time and energy. I’ve benefited from guidance from senior members of our commercial team, like our head of commercial insights, Marie Ryan. As a lawyer, it’s been really useful to appreciate our business from a different perspective.

Jetrader: What was your first job?

RM: I got a summer job helping out in an administrative role in a small law firm when I was 17 years old. It provided me with a glimpse into what a career in law might look like and started me thinking that this might be my long-term career ambition. During university, I also worked in a busy hotel bar and restaurant, which provided me with some of the juggling skills I use today to prioritize a busy workload!

Jetrader: What advice would you give to someone just starting out in the industry?

RM: Be curious and open to learning about aviation as a whole and how decisions are reached. The broader your understanding, the greater the opportunities will be. At Avolon, we have a very transparent culture, and there’s a lot of scope for career mobility within the organization. We call this “changing swim lanes,” and it means there are always opportunities for growth.