NED – Defence Technology

Overview of Need

Our client is a UK-based designer and manufacturer of advanced uncrewed aerial systems (UAS), delivering mission-ready drone technology for defence, security and critical national infrastructure applications.

Designed, developed and manufactured in the UK, the company’s autonomous systems provide intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities for demanding operational environments. With a strong reputation for engineering excellence and rapid innovation, the business is expanding internationally and strengthening its position as a leading sovereign defence technology provider.

The Opportunity

An opportunity has arisen for an experienced Non-Executive Director to join the Board during an exciting period of growth.

As the business continues to scale its commercial capabilities and international presence, the successful candidate will provide independent oversight, strategic guidance and constructive challenge to the Chair and Executive Team. This appointment is focused on strengthening governance, supporting long-term strategic development and ensuring the business remains well positioned for sustainable growth.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership

• Contribute to the development and execution of the Company’s long-term growth strategy.
• Provide independent challenge on strategic initiatives, investment decisions and commercial priorities.
• Support expansion across UK, NATO and allied defence markets.
• Advise on international growth, strategic partnerships and market positioning.
• Provide insight into defence technology trends and competitive developments.

 

Governance & Risk

• Promote high standards of corporate governance and Board effectiveness.
• Strengthen governance frameworks as the business continues to scale.
• Provide independent oversight of commercial, financial and strategic decisions.
• Support robust risk management and organisational resilience.
• Contribute to Board evaluation and succession planning activities.

 

Executive Support

• Act as a trusted adviser and mentor to the CEO and Executive Leadership Team.
• Provide constructive challenge while supporting executive decision-making.
• Help develop leadership capability and organisational performance.
• Foster a culture of accountability, integrity and continuous improvement.

 

Board & Stakeholder Engagement

• Actively participate in Board meetings and committee activities.
• Review Board papers and contribute informed, independent judgement.
• Represent the Company with investors, government bodies, strategic partners and customers where appropriate.
• Leverage relevant networks to support commercial opportunities and long-term growth.

Candidate Profile

The successful candidate will bring:

 

Essential Experience

• Senior executive or Board-level experience within defence, aerospace, advanced engineering, manufacturing or high-growth technology businesses.
• Strong commercial judgement and strategic leadership capability.
• Experience operating at Board level with sound governance knowledge.
• Experience supporting founder-led, entrepreneurial or scaling businesses.
• Ability to provide independent oversight alongside constructive support.

 

Desirable Experience

• Defence or national security sectors.
• Aerospace or uncrewed aerial systems (UAS).
• Ministry of Defence or government procurement.
• Advanced manufacturing and sovereign capability.
• International expansion.
• Fundraising, investor relations or private equity-backed businesses.
• Mergers and acquisitions.
• Technology commercialisation.
• Governance within highly regulated industries.

 

Personal Attributes

• Independent thinker with sound judgement.
• Commercially astute and strategically focused.
• Collaborative, approachable and credible.
• Calm under pressure with strong analytical skills.
• Committed to ethical leadership and high standards of governance.

Remuneration

• £40,000 per annum.
• Reasonable business expenses reimbursed.

Time Commitment

• Approximately two days per month.
• Attendance at Board meetings and occasional site visits.

Term of Appointment

• Initial term to be agreed with the successful candidate.

How to Apply

Each opportunity has a different application process. Please email admin@advance-services-group.com for full application details.