National Armaments Director appointed to drive defence reform and bolster UK arsenal
Rupert Pearce has been appointed as National Armaments Director in the Ministry of Defence.
Mr Pearce brings extensive FTSE 100 leadership experience to the role, having been the chief executive of satellite operator Inmarsat until 2021.
He will be expected to reshape UK defence procurement and industrial partnerships during his five-year fixed term in the position.
What is the role of the National Armaments Director?
The NAD is a crucial role as the UK government looks to reform defence procurement by speeding up decisions, tackling waste and improving outcomes in the Armed Forces.
He will work with Defence Secretary John Healey to deliver the national arsenal required for the UK Armed Forces to execute defence operations demanded by the wide-ranging threats around the world.
"I am deeply honoured to be appointed as the UK's National Armaments Director," Mr Pearce said.
"It is vital that our Armed Forces have cutting-edge capabilities at their disposal to project an effective deterrent, both alone and in conjunction with Nato and allies."
Andy Start, who has been establishing the new group as National Armaments Director in an interim capacity, will be helping him for the first few months of his tenure.
What is his background?
Mr Pearce previously worked in the private sector, including a 16-year-long stint at FTSE 100 satellite telecommunications company Inmarsat, where he served as chief executive for nine years.
He has a track record of managing large-scale organisations and building international partnerships.
It is hoped that his background in venture capital will help firms take technology from initial conception to the production line.
What have the politicians in charge of defence said in response?
Mr Healey praised Mr Pearce on his appointment to the position, saying he is "an exceptional leader".
"The National Armaments Director will be a cornerstone of defence reform, positioning the UK to meet evolving global threats whilst making defence an engine for growth in communities across the nation," the Rawmarsh and Conisbrough MP said.
"Rupert is an exceptional leader with extensive experience in high-value budgets, effective reform, and delivery on the global stage.
"He will ensure our forces have the equipment they need, on time and on budget."
What is the National Armaments Director responsible for?
:: Delivering the capabilities required from industry to execute plans and operations demanded by ever-changing threats.
:: Delivering the Defence Industry Strategy.
:: Ensuring a resilient supply chain and the required readiness of the national arsenal.
:: Leading on UK defence exports and acquisition reform.
:: Speeding up procurement and reducing duplication while coordinating with wider government, industry, academia and international partners to deploy investment.
Rupert Pearce – a profile
Mr Pearce, who obtained a bachelor's degree in history and a master's in modern history from the University of Oxford, started his career as a lawyer before moving into the technology and telecommunications sector.
He has served as the CEO of innovative energy company Highview Power and worked as a venture partner for Columbia Capital, a technology venture capital firm.
On his LinkedIn profile, Mr Pearce, who is a father and grandfather, revealed that he is a "keen sportsman".
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