Tuesday 10 November, 14.00
Seminar Room C, Manor Road Building
The Criticality and Conundrum of Defence Acquisition & Industry
Andy Start, DE&S
Many will argue that Defence and National Security is more important than it has been for decades. That defence is critically dependent on our acquisition systems and the defence industry that support it. Why then, in almost every county, is defence acquisition and defence industry seen by the general public as ineffective at best? What is the reality behind this perception and what, at a time of accelerating change should nations and industry be doing about it? Drawing on his experience as a senior executive and CEO within US, European and British firms; as the UK’s National Armaments Director and now as a part time academic, Andy Start shares what he’s learnt and what he’s still seeking to understand in this internationally vital field.
Andy Start served most recently as the 4* UK National Armaments Director and a member of the UK Defence Board & Executive Committee. Recruited for his track record of delivering strategic change and organisational performance, he was responsible for restructuring the UK’s defence acquisition organisation (DE&S) before uniting DE&S, the Defence Infrastructure Organisation, Dstl and Defence Digital into the National Armaments Director Group to deliver greater capability and innovation for the UK Armed Forces
Trained as an engineer, Andy began his career designing and managing military satellite programmes before going on to lead multiple major aerospace, defence and technology businesses — including roles as: CEO of Capita Public Service; President of Inmarsat Global Government; President of Harris Tactical Radio; and MD of BAE Systems Defence Avionics. He has had an active NED career, including Chair of Mid Kent College, Medway Innovation, and sat on the board of the UK Electronics Council and Tech UK.
Andy is currently building a portfolio career which includes part-time study for a PhD in Defence Industry Structure and Competitiveness at King's College London. He is the Honorary Colonel of 106th (Yeomanry) Regiment Royal Artillery, and on the advisory board of Women in Defence.
All are welcome, no need to book.
