The Aerospace Technology Institute (ATI) has announced the appointment of Stephen Ball as Non-Executive Chair, effective from 23rd January 2020. The appointment will follow the stepping down of Stephen Henwood CBE, who has been Chair since the Institute was established in 2014.
Stephen Ball brings 40 years’ experience in engineering, strategy and management in both UK industry and Government. His most recent executive position was as CEO of Lockheed Martin UK, where he grew the business to deliver sales of more than £1 billion with 3,300 people in 20 sites across the country.
“Stephen will join the ATI at a critical time,” said Gary Elliott, Chief Executive of the Aerospace Technology Institute. “The global aerospace sector is facing a series of challenges – from environmental imperatives to autonomous flight and new forms of urban air mobility – and these can only be addressed by increasing the pace of research and innovation. The Institute has a central role to play in this, and we are helping UK aerospace to seize the global opportunities through our technology strategy and the funding programmes we lead.
“Stephen has established his credibility through senior leadership roles in Government and industry, centred on collaborative relationships and with a UK focus in a global context. Stephen will bring this experience to his leadership of our Board and help the ATI to continue to deliver value to the UK sector and economy.”
Stephen Ball said, “The need for the ATI has never been greater. The aerospace sector is set to undergo some significant changes in the coming years, and for the UK to maintain its leading position will require Government, industry and academia to work together with a shared vision. I see the ATI as leading that effort – encouraging collaboration, facilitating research programmes and convening the whole sector – and I look forward to working with the Board and the rest of the Institute to help make it happen”.
Commenting on the tenure of Stephen Henwood CBE, Gary Elliott said, “We owe a huge thanks to Stephen Henwood for his counsel and his leadership over the last five years. Stephen was instrumental in the creation of the ATI, establishing strong relationships across Government and industry and helping to shape the strategic direction of the Institute. Under the Chairmanship of Stephen, the ATI has directed investment of more than £2 billion into research & technology projects to keep the UK aerospace sector competitive and return value to the UK economy.
“Stephen will leave with the thanks and best wishes of the Board, the Executive Management Team and all who work at the ATI”.
