Jo’s Achievements
Jo Salter is a trailblazing figure in aviation history, renowned as the UK’s first female fast jet pilot. Her career, marked by breaking gender barriers in a male-dominated field, exemplifies dedication, skill and the shattering of glass ceilings in military aviation.
Key Achievements
Britain’s First Female Fast Jet Pilot
1994 – 1997
In 1992, Jo Salter dramatically altered her career path, seizing the newly opened opportunity for women to pilot jet aircraft in the Royal Air Force. Her determination and skill culminated in her becoming Britain’s first female fast jet pilot, a Flight Lieutenant in the esteemed 617 Squadron. Jo’s groundbreaking achievement not only marked a significant milestone in military aviation but also paved the way for future female pilots in a traditionally male-dominated arena.
Director of People & Organisation, PwC
2015 – 2018
Jo Salter’s appointment as Director of People & Organisation at PwC marked a significant career milestone. In this role, she led a global team of 10,000 across 138 countries, integrating her expertise in digital capabilities, data analytics and employee performance enhancement. Her work focused on tailoring solutions for organisational transformation and workforce effectiveness, leveraging her experience in managing large-scale digital implementations and human capital risks.
Appointed MBE by HRH Prince William
2022
In the 2022 New Year Honours, Jo was appointed MBE (Member of the Order of the British Empire) for Services to Aviation by HRH Prince William. This prestigious accolade recognises her pioneering contributions to aviation, notably as Britain’s first female fast jet pilot, and her enduring impact on the field.
Recipient of an Honorary Doctorate from Bournemouth University & Lecturer at the Open University
2022
Another of Jo’s achievements includes being a distinguished Lecturer at the Open University, imparting invaluable insights from her varied career to aspiring business leaders on the Open University MBA Programme. In 2022, her contributions to education and aviation were further acknowledged when Bournemouth University conferred upon her an Honorary Doctorate, celebrating her exceptional achievements and influence.
Voted one of the 50 Most Inspiring Women in the World by the BBC
Jo’s remarkable journey and achievements in aviation have earned her global recognition, being named one of the 50 Most Inspiring Women in the World by both the BBC and Harpers & Queen. This accolade highlights her influence and role as a trailblazer, inspiring women worldwide in traditionally male-dominated fields.
Director of Global Transformative Leadership, PwC
2021 – 2023
Jo is currently the Director of Global Transformative Leadership at PwC. During her tenure at PwC, she has played a pivotal role in leading Application Management Services for the global implementation of Workday. This strategic initiative spans 157 territories, significantly impacting over 240,000 people. Her leadership in this massive project underscores her expertise in driving transformational change on a global scale.
Other Achievements
Jo’s achievements don’t stop there! Take a look at her career timeline to discover more incredible achievements she has made throughout her career.
1986 – 1999
Officer in the Royal Air Force
1994 – 1997
Pilot in the 617 Squadron
2000 – 2017
Associate Lecturer at the Open University Business School
2006
Author of Energy: 52 Ways to Fire Up Your Life and Become an Energy Angel
2006 – 2018
Pilot on 6 AEF, RAF Benson
2008 – Present
Ambassador of Global Angels
2015 – 2018
Director of People & Organisation for PwC
2019
Author of Energize
2022
Awarded an Honorary Doctorate from Bournemouth University
2022
Personally invited to the Top Gun: Maverick premiere by Tom Cruise
2025
Named #1 in Global gurus’ selection of the official top 10 motivational speakers to hire for corporate events
Keep Up-to-Date with Jo!
To keep up-to-date with Jo’s latest adventures, why not follow her on social media?