Dorian Rhys Jones
Outdoor Operations LEad
Penrhyn Bay +4407775756196 / Riyadh +9660507352899
Summary
Operations and project-focused professional with experience delivering complex, multi-site programmes across Saudi Arabia and the UK. Proven track record managing logistics, staffing, scheduling, and safety across large-scale operations, including delivery across seven campuses within a British international school group.
Skilled in end-to-end project management in fast-paced environments, producing clear reporting for senior stakeholders and adapting to changing operational demands. Strong background in risk assessment, planning, and execution.
A2 CofC-certified drone operator with experience delivering projects in remote and high-risk environments across Saudi Arabia, Europe, and the UK. Proficient in bespoke flight planning, including manual (ATTI-mode) flying in GPS-limited conditions, and resolving in-field technical challenges. Experienced working independently or in small teams to deliver consistent results in demanding settings.
Overview
1
1
Certification
2027
2027
years of professional experience
Work History
Operational UAS Pilot
Head of Outdoor Learning & Drone Operations Lead
- Executed drone operations in remote and high-temperature environments
- Conducted bespoke flight planning in complex terrain
- Experienced in manual flight control in GPS-denied environments
- Managed full equipment lifecycle including batteries, transport, and checks
- Supported real-time operational decision-making using aerial data
Risk & Safety Lead
- Produced executive-level risk assessments during regional instability
- Assessed airspace, drone threats, and operational exposure
- Delivered strategic recommendations under uncertainty
Head of Outdoor Learning and Operational Lead
British International School Riyadh
Riyadh
09.2019 - 06.2026
- Managed delivery of programmes including International and Domestic trips across 7 campuses
- coordinating logistics, staffing, scheduling, and safety
- Oversaw end-to-end project execution including planning, implementation, and post-project review
- Produced reports and documentation for senior leadership to support decision-making
- Coordinated teams operating in remote environments, ensuring consistent delivery under changing conditions
- Maintained compliance with safety standards and organisational procedures
- Produced executive-level risk assessments during regional instability
- Evaluated operational risks including travel, airspace, and environmental factors
- Delivered clear recommendations to support safe and effective project delivery
Education
Bachelor(Hons) - Geography and environmental Science
University college North Wales
Bangor01-1995
Skills
- UAS Field Operations & Deployment
- Manual Flight Control (ATTI mode / non-GPS environments)
- Equipment Prep
- Battery Management & Logistics
- Remote & Harsh Environment Operations
- Risk Assessment & Safety Management
- Operational Problem Solving & Troubleshooting
- Team Deployment & Independent Working
- Communication & Reporting in Field Environments
- Aerial data analysis
- Equipment maintenance
- Project management
- Team leadership
- Decision making
- Flight planning
- Safety compliance
- Operational logistics
- Crisis management
- Remote operations
- Real-time decision making
- Environmental awareness
Certification
- A2 CofC Certified Drone Operator
- EVC Qualified Wilderness First Aid
- Mountain Leader Training
- UIAA Belay Supervisor
- Level 2 Powerboat
Additional Information
Extensive experience in remote deployments, Comfortable working long hours in challenging environments, Full UK driving licence, Valid passport, Willing to travel up to 80%
Languages
Spanish
Upper Intermediate
B2
Hobbies and interests
- Kitesurfing Instructor
- Mountain Biking
- SCUBA
Timeline
Head of Outdoor Learning and Operational Lead
British International School Riyadh
09.2019 - 06.2026
Bachelor(Hons) - Geography and environmental Science
University college North Wales
Operational UAS Pilot
Head of Outdoor Learning & Drone Operations Lead