Discovering Balance: Simon’s Secrets to Work-Life Harmony

Simon Watson, the visionary Founder and CEO of Aerios, has combined his lifelong love for aviation with a knack for software innovation to revolutionize the air cargo industry.

A physics graduate with over 5,000 hours of flight experience, his early career in aviation saw him flying the A320 series aircraft, while his interest in technology led to experimenting with software development during university – Aerios is the culmination of Simon’s expertise in these two fields.

For Simon, Aerios is the realization of a lifelong dream to merge two distinct passions—aviation and technology. Reflecting on his journey, he recalls: “My passion for aviation began in childhood, and I was fortunate to make it a reality as a commercial pilot. But during university, I also fell in love with coding. Starting Aerios felt like a natural evolution, combining these interests to create something impactful.”

Aerios emerged at a critical juncture for air cargo, a sector often perceived as lagging in digital transformation. Simon describes this challenge as an opportunity: “By 2050, people will look back at the 2020s as the era when industries embraced digital technologies. Air cargo is uniquely positioned for innovation, with its complexity spanning logistics, security, global regulations, and e-commerce demands.”

The intricate web of air cargo logistics is both Simon’s challenge and inspiration. Leading Aerios requires balancing the demands of aviation, software, and logistics—a trifecta that presents its own set of hurdles. “Challenges are inevitable,” he shares. “It’s a bit like flying—you plan meticulously, but the unexpected happens. What matters is focusing on what’s within your control and remaining calm under pressure.”

Simon’s approach to overcoming obstacles reflects his growth as a leader. Early in his career, he grappled with the stress of uncontrollable factors. Over time, he learned to embrace failure as part of the journey. “Failure is inevitable, but it’s how quickly you recover and learn that defines your success,” he explains.

At Aerios, creating a balanced work culture is paramount. Despite the demands of running a fast-paced company, Simon prioritizes personal connections and team engagement. “Remote work offers flexibility, but in-person interactions build trust and collaboration,” he notes. “Finding the right balance is key.”

For Simon, maintaining a work-life balance is both a challenge and a priority. “Running your own company requires passion and commitment, but it’s crucial to set boundaries,” he admits. Living in the countryside near London, Simon finds solace in nature, often taking long walks to recharge. “Being outdoors helps me clear my mind and return to work with fresh energy.”

When time allows, Simon indulges in scuba diving and skiing, with St. Lucia being a favorite destination for its vibrant marine life and tranquil beauty. These activities offer him a chance to disconnect and gain perspective, reinforcing his belief in the importance of self-care.

Simon’s leadership philosophy is grounded in clarity, communication, and empathy. He believes a great leader not only envisions the future but also inspires their team to share that vision. “A strong leader understands the goals and motivations of their team members and nurtures their strengths,” he explains. Compassion, for Simon, is as essential as strategic thinking.

Looking ahead, Simon is optimistic about the potential of air cargo to evolve and thrive. He sees the sector as a fertile ground for problem-solvers and innovators. “This isn’t an easy industry, but that’s what makes it rewarding. If you’re someone who thrives on challenges and wants to make a tangible impact, air cargo is the place to be.”

From the cockpit of an A320 to the helm of Aerios, Simon has transformed his dreams into a reality that inspires others.

Through innovation, resilience, and a commitment to fostering talent, Simon is surely paving the way for a brighter future in air cargo logistics—one where technology and human ingenuity work in harmony to achieve remarkable results.