Barbara Cassani

Barbara Cassani is an accomplished business leader recognised for her remarkable achievements in corporate management and leadership. As the founder of the budget airline Go Fly, launched under British Airways, and the initial leader of London’s successful bid for the 2012 Summer Olympics, her career showcases a profound understanding of effective leadership and strategic vision. In 1997, Cassani was chosen by British Airways to establish a low-cost airline to compete with emerging budget carriers such as Ryanair and EasyJet. With £25 million in seed capital, she launched Go Fly in 1998. Demonstrating her adept leadership, the airline turned a profit within two years, highlighting her skill in navigating competitive markets.

By 2001, Barbara spearheaded a management buyout of Go Fly, becoming its first Chief Executive. Under her stewardship, the airline solidified its reputation for innovation and operational excellence. However, in 2002, the airline was acquired by EasyJet, a move she strongly opposed. Despite this, Cassani’s leadership acumen was further affirmed when she won the prestigious Veuve Clicquot Businesswoman of the Year Award. During this period, she also authored the book Go – An Airline Adventure, which won critical acclaim and multiple business publishing awards, offering a candid account of her experiences and insights into corporate management and leadership.

In 2003, Cassani was appointed to lead London’s bid for the 2012 Summer Olympics, a role in which she demonstrated exceptional organisational and motivational skills. She navigated the initial phase of the bid, growing the team to 80 and gaining widespread support from sceptical stakeholders, including the public and political leaders. Under her guidance, the bid’s master plan was meticulously developed, detailing event locations, infrastructure requirements, and a comprehensive budget. This groundwork was instrumental in London becoming a candidate city and ultimately securing the 2012 Olympics, a feat that cemented her reputation as an inspirational leader capable of delivering transformative results.

Barbara Cassani’s extensive leadership experience and her ability to drive growth, innovation, and success make her an ideal choice for events such as corporate conferences or team-building workshops. Her speeches are enriched by her firsthand experiences of overcoming challenges, managing complex teams, and achieving ambitious goals. Barbara’s engaging style and insightful approach inspire audiences to adopt effective leadership strategies and think innovatively about their own potential. She is now available to hire via the Inspirational Leadership Speakers Agency.