Tony Wood, chief executive of Meggitt PLC and former Rolls-Royce president, aerospace, has been appointed ADS president, succeeding Colin Smith. The appointment comes ahead of the 2020 Farnborough International Airshow, where the spotlight will be on the UK aerospace, defense and space industries, the latest developments in sustainable aviation technology, and attracting future engineering talent.

“It is an honor to be appointed ADS President and I look forward to championing the industries we represent: industries that connect people across continents, ensure our national security and put advanced technology into space," Wood said. “2020 marks a year where both sustainability and social purpose will be high on our agenda, underpinned by the innovation that continues to be the hallmark of the industries we represent"

"We are looking forward to working with the new government to take forward our industrial partnerships, investing to create a sustainable future for all our stakeholders and to deliver a national space program. We keenly anticipate contributing to the planned Security, Defense and Foreign Policy Review and ensuring that our industries remain equipped to provide outstanding levels of support to our Armed Forces, Police and Security Services," Wood added.

“We are also looking forward to the 2020 Farnborough International Airshow and the opportunity to showcase to an international audience the fantastic products, services and innovations created by our members.”

ADS Chief Executive Paul Everitt said: “It is a great start to 2020 for ADS to welcome Tony Wood to the role of President. He brings extensive knowledge of our industries; his experience and drive will be an asset to ADS and to our members.

“I would also like to thank Colin Smith for his support, advice and dedication in his two years as ADS president, which have seen our membership continue to grow; development of our industrial strategy partnerships with government; and a first Farnborough International Airshow at our new Exhibition and Conference Center," Everitt said.

As president, Wood leads the ADS Board, which is composed of representatives from each of the UK’s Aerospace, Defense, Security and Space sectors, including vice presidents from each industry. The appointment of ADS president is made for a two-year term.