Kevin Craven is to be appointed as permanent Chief Executive of ADS, effective from October 1.

Craven has served as ADS interim chief executive since the end of March this year. Previously, he worked for Serco, most recently as Strategic Partnership Director, following three years as Serco CEO UK & Europe from 2017 to 2020. He has also served on the ADS Board as Vice President for Defence.

“Gold standard service at critical time for industries”

Following approval by the ADS board, President Tony Wood said: “Kevin’s appointment as Chief Executive brings extensive business experience, knowledge of our sectors and focus on ensuring ADS offers its members a gold standard service at a critical time for the industries that we represent.

“Working closely with both Government and our members, his experience will be invaluable as we address today’s challenges and pursue the opportunities ahead.”

ADS Chief Executive Kevin Craven added: “It is a privilege to take on the permanent role as Chief Executive and I am thrilled to be working with the fantastic team at ADS to serve our members in every part of the UK.

“As Chief Executive I will work to make sure we deliver for our members, providing the support, intelligence, and access to opportunities that companies of all sizes in our industries need to succeed and to grow.

“This is an exciting time for our industries as we look to recover from the pandemic, deliver net zero aviation, develop innovative solutions to defence and security challenges, and maximise the growing potential of our space sector.”

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