know of companies that operate their own machines, for business use / staff transport etc, so it's not public transport nor an AOC operation. So no need for a commercial licensed pilot either (provided of course the pilot is not being paid as a pilot!).
Yes, I know of companies that do that, too. I work for one of them. I'm just the odd job man and pot washer, too. But the CAA insist I hold a commercial licence to fly the owner's private, non AOC helicopter.