Our Team
Robert Pearson CEO
Robert has a long history working on successful Chinese/UK collaborative projects.
Having founded a design agency in 1992, he guided the business to become a multinational product design group specialising in accelerating the design and production processes between the China and the UK.
During this time he reinvented the creative workflow between China and the UK and in the process, his Hangzhou based operation becoming the leading player in CGI imaging for the EU market.
In 2018 Robert sold his agency to focus solely on Sino/Uk projects. Drawing on a lifetime of experience in the field of innovation and with contacts in numerous industries, he is ideally placed to ensure the smooth, effective delivery of cutting edge projects.
Andy Sproson COO
Andy Sproson is a distinguished expert in Unmanned Aviation Legislation, renowned for securing the first UK approval for agricultural operations using unmanned aircraft. His achievements include obtaining the first fully commercial, unrestricted Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) permission for agricultural operations in the UK—setting new standards for innovation and safety in the industry.
He co-founded AutoSpray Systems in 2020 with Robert Pearson and Scott Dowell, building the company into the UK's leading aerial pesticide application provider. As the leader of AutoSpray Systems’ aerial pesticides division, he is responsible for all aspects of aerial pesticide applications, including conducting rigorous testing, preparing Health and Safety Executive (HSE) permit applications, and developing efficacy protocols. His leadership has established AutoSpray Systems as the market leader in aerial pesticide applications within the UK.
His foundational experience stems from a professional background in the Emergency Services, where he excelled in Critical Incident Planning, Search and Rescue Operations, and Resource Management. His transition into unmanned aviation began with co-founding Pigs Can Fly alongside Scott Dowell, where he pioneered the use of unmanned technology for surveying hazardous environments and confined spaces, significantly enhancing safety and operational efficiency.
He has played a pivotal role in developing Unmanned Aerial Vehicle departments for over 1000 organisations, instilling robust safety standards and operational protocols.
Scott Dowell CTO
I’m Scott Dowell, and my journey began in 2001 when I joined the Royal Navy as an Air Engineering Technician, serving 8 years on Lynx Helicopters. This formative experience instilled in me a strong technical foundation, operational precision, and the ability to perform under pressure — skills that have shaped my entire career.
Following my military service, I transitioned into law enforcement, dedicating 14 years as a Police Officer, ultimately specialising as a Police Dog Handler. It was during this time that my passion for drones truly took flight. In 2016, alongside my colleague Andy Sproson, we launched Pigs Can Fly, initially a private drone venture that quickly evolved into a CAA Approved training entity by 2018. Together, we pioneered the formation of our police force’s first official drone team, introducing UAV technology into frontline policing operations.
Our collective experience operating drones in diverse, high-stakes environments laid the groundwork for the next chapter — the creation of AutoSpray Systems in 2020, in partnership with Robert Pearson. Our mission? To revolutionise UK agriculture by integrating drone technology into farming practices, specifically in the aerial application of plant protection products.
Today, I as Co-Founder of AutoSpray Systems, I lead the Training & Compliance Lead elements of our business. My role focuses on maintaining the highest operational standards, ensuring our team not only meets but exceeds regulatory requirements. I oversee pilot training, operational compliance, and safety protocols, ensuring that every flight is executed with precision, efficiency, and environmental responsibility.
With a deep-rooted passion for aviation, law enforcement, and agricultural innovation, I remain committed to pushing the boundaries of drone technology while upholding the values of safety, integrity, and excellence.