Tell us about your background
After 24 years in the British Army conducting maintenance management on rotary wing aircraft, I joined the Australian Army for 14 years, again working in many different aspects of aviation maintenance.
I am married to Hayley and have 3 grown up daughters all living here in South East Queensland. In fact, one daughter works for Northrop Grumman!
How did you find moving from the Army to Northrop Grumman Australia?
My career with Northrop Grumman has been a bit of a roller coaster ride since joining the company 3 years ago. Being ex-Army in a predominately RAAF centric environment had its challenges, as did having to decide what to wear in the mornings after wearing uniform for 38 years. My first position as the KC-30A Operations Manager was very busy, engaging with many stakeholders, both internally and externally, but with the help of a great team and program support we collectively produced outstanding results and a capability that the Commonwealth could depend upon.
What does your current role involve?
I lead the maintenance function within the Sustainment and Modernisation Services Operating Unit. It is my responsibility to ensure that the maintenance and maintenance support workforce within the programs have the correct processes and tools available for them to be able to effectively conduct their work and produce serviceable aircraft for the customer.
What for you makes Northrop Grumman Australia special?
Without doubt, the piece for me that makes Northrop Grumman special is its people. We have some of the most amazing, talented and passionate people I have worked with.
What has been the highlight of your career so far at Northrop Grumman Australia?
That has to be being part of the KC-30A team that won not only the Defense Systems Sector Presidents Leadership Award last year but also the Chairman’s Award for Customer Excellence.
What advice would you give someone considering joining Northrop Grumman Australia?
Give it a go! Whilst Northrop Grumman Australia isn’t the biggest contractor supporting the Defence Industry, it means we are not encumbered by overly rigid frameworks. We allow our people the freedom to act and think as appropriate for the task. We are growing and we have a good secure future.
What do you do in your spare time?
I spend my spare time on the golf course, my wife will probably say too much time, but now that my soccer days are over I have to rely on a more sedate sport, although golfing fanatics will agree that playing golf usually induces more stress than it alleviates.
What is your claim to fame?
I played soccer for Brighton and Hove Albion youth team until the age of 16.
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