Background

Meet John Kicinski, the ultimate adventure maestro! From pouring drinks as a bar manager at a championship golf club to steering the skies as an airline supervisor, I’ve mastered tourism, client charm, and team-wrangling. My law enforcement days? Think sharp reports, cool-headed crisis control, and defusing drama before it sparks. Now, as a freshly minted Professional Divemaster, I’m diving into new challenges with a grin. Older? Sure. Wiser? Absolutely. I’m all about blending seasoned expertise with a zest for learning, ready to make every alpine moment a peak experience! Like to know more? please feel free to contact me at any time.

Job experience

• February 2024 - present
  Hub operator / Drone Pilot
  Self-employed
  

  UK and Europe

  Conducted ground-based hub operations to ensure UAV availability and airworthiness, performing flow checks and basic maintenance with strict adherence to safety guidelines. Maintained clear and effective communication channels with remote pilots, relaying critical information to support safe and successful flight execution. Operated in high-risk international environments, demonstrating exceptional accountability and communication skills while strictly following safety protocols to ensure operational success. Hold a recently obtained General Visual Line of Sight Certificate (GVC) for multirotor drones and successfully filed PDRA01 with the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), showcasing regulatory compliance. Recognize that teamwork is essential in fostering a culture of safety and collaboration, enabling seamless coordination with colleagues to achieve safe and efficient operations.
  
  

• December 2017 - August 2022
  Corporate Fraud Investigator
  Leicester city council
  

  Leicester, UK

  Conducted thorough end-to-end investigations into fraudulent and criminal activities, interviewing witnesses and suspects in full compliance with the Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1984. Performed meticulous risk assessments and data mining to identify threats, successfully detecting hundreds of thousands of pounds in financial anomalies and preventing £500,000 in asset losses through fraudulent schemes. Collaborated closely with external agencies and legal authorities to secure confidential information and prepare robust evidence for court proceedings, ensuring strict adherence to UK legal standards. Developed and implemented effective strategies to safeguard organizational reputation and resources, including targeted anti-money laundering initiatives. Achieved significant success in identifying and resolving financial discrepancies, leading to the recovery of substantial funds and the revision of supplier practices. Leveraged expertise in anti-money laundering protocols to prevent multiple money laundering attempts. Teamwork played a critical role in these accomplishments, fostering seamless collaboration with colleagues and external partners to ensure thorough investigations and uphold the highest standards of integrity and compliance.
  
  

• April 2015 - July 2017
  Travel agency owner
  iQ-Travel
  

  Leicester, UK

  Managed high-value client accounts as a self-employed travel agent, delivering bespoke travel solutions whilst prioritising operational efficiency and client safety. Negotiated effectively with suppliers to secure competitive rates, enhancing service quality and ensuring high levels of client satisfaction. Expertly interpreted complex booking systems to facilitate seamless operations, demonstrating strong organisational and problem-solving skills. Collaboration with suppliers and clients was integral to success, fostering strong relationships to ensure safe, efficient, and high-quality travel experiences.
  
  

• July 2005 - June 2014
  Police officer
  Leicestershire Police
  

  Leicester, UK

  I collaborated closely with multi-agency teams to deliver robust security and public safety operations, effectively managing high-risk incidents, conducting lawful arrests, and upholding community safety and order. Through strong teamwork, I led comprehensive investigations, engaging with suspects, gathering evidence, and working alongside Crown Prosecution Services to secure successful court outcomes. By leveraging technology and proactive policing strategies in partnership with community stakeholders, I contributed to crime prevention, including the recovery of £40,000 in high-value equipment and the location of high-risk individuals to ensure public safety. My key achievements include working diligently with colleagues to locate a high-risk individual using advanced technology, safeguarding their well-being and that of the community, as well as actively supporting community safety by detecting and processing offences, driving positive criminal justice outcomes through collaborative efforts.
  
  

• June 2003 - October 2003
  Hotel night manager
  Arlberg Hotel
  

  Mount Buller VIC, Australia

  As Night Manager, I seamlessly oversaw the hotel’s night-time operations, prioritising exceptional guest relations, safety, and security through close collaboration with my team. I worked diligently with colleagues to manage inventory through meticulous stock takes, optimising supply levels to reduce waste and drive cost-effective operations. By fostering strong teamwork, I coordinated smooth transitions to daytime staff, ensuring responsibilities were handed over effectively through detailed shift reviews to maintain operational continuity. I also engaged with the team to arrange staff coverage during absences, maintaining high service standards and supporting a cohesive community within the hotel. My efforts ensured a safe, welcoming environment for guests and staff alike, contributing to the hotel’s reputation for excellence.
  
  

• First Aid at Work
  FutureQuals
  610/1291/9
  

  May 2025 - present

  3 day first aid at work course