Belfast – ADS today announced that Leslie Orr, Director of ADS Northern Ireland, will retire in February 2026, following a distinguished 15-year career driving growth and collaboration across the aerospace, defence, security and space sectors in the region.
Leslie, who joined ADS in July 2010, has been instrumental in strengthening Northern Ireland’s position as a hub of innovation and industrial excellence.
Working in partnership with government, industry and academia, Leslie played a central role in delivering the Northern Ireland Partnering for Growth Strategy, which set an ambitious goal of doubling the size of the sectors by 2024. This milestone was celebrated at the Farnborough International Airshow in 2024, marking a decade of progress that has exceeded expectations.
Kevin Craven, CEO of ADS Group, said:
“Leslie’s dedication and leadership have been pivotal to the success of our sectors in Northern Ireland. His collaborative approach and deep commitment to our members have helped shape a thriving community and deliver remarkable growth. On behalf of everyone at ADS, I thank Leslie for his tireless service and wish him the very best as he prepares for his well-earned retirement.”
Leslie will remain in his role during a lengthy transition period, working alongside the ADS leadership team and an external recruiter to appoint his successor. He will continue to guide the Northern Ireland team before stepping down in February 2026.
Commenting on his decision, Leslie said:
“It has been an incredible privilege to serve ADS Northern Ireland and to work with so many passionate and innovative companies. Together, we have achieved extraordinary results for our industries and our region. I am immensely proud of what we have built and look forward to seeing the next chapter of growth under new leadership.
“I would like to thank all of our supporters, members and now friends for their ongoing dedication and incredible contributions to our sectors. It has been an immense pleasure to serve industry for so long, and it is my firm belief that the best days for our sectors in Northern Ireland are ahead of us, not behind us, and I look forward to the growth and prosperity the next decade will bring.”
Chair of the Northern Ireland Council and Director of Operations Commercial Seating of Collins Aerospace, Alan Henning Commented:
“Throughout his fifteen year tenure, Leslie has been a true patron of Northern Ireland’s aerospace and defence industries, in particular. His support has been invaluable in driving our sector forward, building true friendships and developing a clear roadmap to drive our industry forward. On behalf of our over 150 members – up from just 7 at the inception of ADS Northern Ireland – I want to take the opportunity to thank Leslie for his tireless commitment.”
“In the next chapter, I look forward to working closely with his successor – building on the extremely strong foundations as a springboard for further growth in our fantastic region.”
Recruitment for the right candidate is underway via an external recruiter. For further information or to express interest in this position, please contact comms@adsgroup.org.uk.
