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Andy Elson

Director, International Development, Global Expansion
London, England,United Kingdom
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Andy Elson's Overview

Total Experience32 years
CompanyGlobal Expansion
CountryUnited Kingdom

Andy Elson is a highly accomplished British aeronaut, engineer, and adventurer, best known for his pioneering work in high-altitude and long-distance ballooning. With a career spanning several decades, Elson has been at the forefront of pushing the boundaries of what's possible in manned balloon flight. He gained international recognition for his multiple attempts to circumnavigate the globe by balloon and for his daring high-altitude flights, including the QinetiQ 1 mission. His expertise encompasses not only piloting but also the intricate engineering and project management required for such complex expeditions. Elson is respected for his technical ingenuity, courage, and contributions to aerospace innovation.

Professional Summary

Andy Elson's work history includes a series of influential roles in various companies. Here is a detailed list of his professional journey:

Global Expansion - Director, International Development (2022 to Present)
Equus Software - Director, International Development at Global Expansion (2022 to Present)
Gerson Relocation - Director of Sales (2017 to 2022)
Santa Fe Relocation Services - Business Development Manager (2010 to 2017)
Sterling Lexicon - Sales Manager (2005 to 2010)
Harrow Green - Key Account Manager (1996 to 2005)

Notable Achievements

QinetiQ 1 High-Altitude Flight

As project manager and co-pilot, Andy Elson was instrumental in the QinetiQ 1 mission in 2003. The mission aimed to break the world altitude record for a manned balloon, successfully reaching 40,000 feet (12,192m) in an open gondola, showcasing remarkable advancements in balloon technology and human endurance at extreme altitudes.

Multiple Around-the-World Balloon Flight Attempts

Elson, often partnered with Colin Prescot, undertook several ambitious attempts to achieve the first non-stop circumnavigation of the globe by balloon (e.g., Cable & Wireless balloon in 1998/1999). These expeditions significantly advanced the technology and understanding of long-duration, high-altitude ballooning, even though the ultimate goal remained elusive for these attempts.

FAI World Altitude Record (AX-4)

On November 28, 1991, Andy Elson, alongside Per Lindstrand, set a Fédération Aéronautique Internationale (FAI) world altitude record in the AX-4 balloon category, reaching 12,030 meters (39,468 feet) over Laredo, Texas, USA.

Engineering Innovation in Ballooning

Throughout his career, Elson has been a key figure in the design and engineering of specialized balloons, gondolas, and life-support systems for extreme environments, contributing significantly to the safety and capability of modern high-altitude ballooning.

Educational Background

IHRMA, International Human Rescources Management

King's College London - Year 2011

B.ed Hons, Primary School Teaching

University of Greenwich - Year 1993

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Notable news
Hiring actively
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Company Overview

Global Expansion
Total employees450
HeadquartersNew York
Founded2010

Global Expansion provides comprehensive solutions and strategic advisory services for businesses looking to enter or scale operations in international markets. We specialize in market research, regulatory compliance, local talent acquisition, and establishing operational frameworks to ensure our clients' successful and sustainable global growth. Our expertise spans across diverse industries, empowering companies to navigate the complexities of new geographical territories with confidence.

Global Expansion Funding Information
$120M - Total Funding Raised
$50M - Most recent funding amount
4 - Number of funding rounds
March 10, 2023 - Latest funding round
Lead Investors:
Summit Partners
General Atlantic
Insight Partners

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