PHOTO: Andrew Churchill FREng FIET, incoming Chairman of the ERA Foundation
Andrew Churchill FREng FIET, who joined the Board in 2020, has been instrumental in maintaining the Foundation’s focus on supporting the UK’s hi-tech manufacturing sector. His leadership in aerospace precision engineering and advocacy for skills training align with the ERA Foundation’s mission to support British engineering and manufacturing excellence.
On his appointment, Churchill said: “I was very surprised but equally delighted to be asked by Sir Chris and our Board of directors to consider stepping up to the role of Chair on Sir Chris’ retirement in May. With a new, longer-term national industrial strategy from Government, we have an important template for growth against which, together with our partners, we can help ensure the critical role that the electech and manufacturing sectors play in the UK economy is recognised. Alongside this, through targeted support, we will continue to engage with and nurture the next generation of UK engineers, and will play our part bridging the gap between engineering research and its commercialisation for the national good.”
PHOTO: Will Butler-Adams OBE, CEO of Brompton Bicycle
Will Butler-Adams OBE, CEO of Brompton Bicycle, joins the Board with proven expertise in growing British manufacturing businesses. Under his leadership, Brompton Bicycle transformed from a 27-employee operation to a global manufacturer with over 200 staff and £25 million turnover.
Will says, “Our planet and the people on it are facing increasing challenges, and many of the solutions will come from innovative engineering and its application. The ERA Foundation has, for over one hundred years, been a catalyst to stimulate these solutions and the future minds that will deliver them. I am excited to join the Board to help continue this critically important work.”
PHOTO: Professor Sir Iain Gray, former Chief Executive of InnovateUK
Professor Sir Iain Gray, former Chief Executive of InnovateUK and current Chair of Bristol Aero Collection Trust, strengthens the Foundation’s aerospace and innovation capabilities. His experience leading Airbus UK and directing aerospace initiatives at Cranfield University adds valuable industry insight.
“I am delighted to be joining the ERA Foundation at this important time and look forward to contributing to its support for the development of Engineering Skills and encouraging innovation across UK Manufacturing organisations”, said Iain.
“These appointments reflect our commitment to promoting British engineering and manufacturing excellence, supporting the next generation of UK engineers,” said ERA Foundation CEO Andrew Everett. “The combined expertise of our new chairman and board members will enhance our ability to influence policy and drive innovation and growth in the high-tech manufacturing sector.”
