Meet the Team

Meet Our Executive Team

• Sanford Michelman Chairman & Chief Executive Officer

  

  Entrepreneur, attorney, and business builder. Co-founder and Chairman of Michelman & Robinson, he has spent decades advising companies through growth, transformation, and complex business challenges. Recognized among Los Angeles' most influential business leaders. At FlyHouse, guides the company's vision, growth strategy, and strategic partnerships.

• Al Mann Chief Safety Officer

  

  Twenty years in aviation safety leadership. Architected and scaled the safety infrastructure at Wheels Up. Fellow of the Royal Aeronautical Society; chaired the NBAA Domestic Operations Committee. At FlyHouse, embeds the safety-first ethos across every operational touchpoint.

• Adesh Desai Co-Chief Technology Officer

  

  Two decades of enterprise software and emerging-tech innovation. Co-founded HeyAnita, the speech-recognition pioneer; key engineering at Microsoft serving Toyota, Warner Bros., and Disney. Holds multiple patents in speech recognition. Leads the FlyHouse technology platform.

• Deepak Sodhi Co-Chief Technology Officer

  

  Two decades of enterprise software and emerging-tech innovation. Co-founded HeyAnita, the speech-recognition pioneer; key engineering at Microsoft serving Toyota, Warner Bros., and Disney. Holds multiple patents in speech recognition. Leads the FlyHouse technology platform.

• Bryan Johnson Chief Legal Officer

  

  Labor and employment law, corporate governance, complex litigation. Came from Michelman & Robinson, where he advised emerging-growth companies on legal infrastructure for fast scale. At FlyHouse, leads regulatory, compliance, and the legal frameworks that let the operation move at the speed it does.

• Derek Gogas Controller
• John Vaillant Chief Operating Officer

  

  Two decades in flight operations. Airline Transport Pilot — 9,000+ total hours, 7,500+ PIC. Built and scaled multiple Part 135 organizations before joining the house. Embry-Riddle, Aeronautical Science. Oversees day-to-day operational performance, fleet expansion, and crew standards.

• Ryan Waguespack Chief Business & Industry Officer

  

  Two decades in business aviation spanning charter operations, regulatory affairs, safety, and industry advocacy. Former senior leader at NATA and founder of the Alabama Business Aviation Association. Known for building alignment across operators, regulators, and industry stakeholders. At FlyHouse, helps shape responsible growth and industry partnerships.

• Adam Smith President, FlyHouse Direct/Pro

  

  Twenty-three years in private aviation serving ultra-high-net-worth travelers with a focus on trust, discretion, and exceptional service. Founder of Jetsmith and longtime advisor on charter and aircraft solutions. At FlyHouse, helps deliver the personalized service and client experience that define the brand.

• James Jones President, Business Development

  

  With over a decade of experience in private aviation, James is a relationship-driven executive focused on strengthening partnerships, supporting our Ambassador network, and expanding the brand's reach. As the founder of a successful jet charter brokerage, he brings an entrepreneurial mindset, deep industry expertise, and a passion for building meaningful connections that drive long-term growth.

• Jason Firestone President, Private Client Group

  

  Came from golf, then the charter brokerage world — a career built on relationships. Builds the partnerships behind PCG: luxury resorts, international properties, the long-running connections that make the concierge tier real.

• Tim Waters President, Enterprise Sales

  

  Twenty years in private aviation advising clients on charter, aircraft ownership, and management solutions. Trusted by corporations, family offices, and high-net-worth travelers for thoughtful guidance and long-term partnership. Known for a client-first approach and deep industry expertise. At FlyHouse, leads enterprise sales and strategic partnerships.

• Todd Goldstein President, Sports & Entertainment

  

  Twenty years in private aviation serving professional athletes, entertainers, and corporate executives. Former leader at Marquis Jet and NetJets, where he created and grew the company's Golf Program into one of business aviation's premier sports platforms. At FlyHouse, Todd leads the Sports & Entertainment division, delivering tailored aviation solutions for clients with the highest standards of service, privacy, and flexibility.

• Kimberly Strassburger Vice President, Human Resources

  

  More than twenty years of leadership across human resources, sales, and operations. Experienced in building high-performing teams, strengthening organizational effectiveness, and supporting business growth. Holds a Master's degree in Organizational Management and is SHRM certified. At FlyHouse, leads talent strategy, organizational development, and the employee experience.