• Joseph Reffitt joins the ADS leadership team as Director of ADS Northern Ireland
  • This appointment strengthens ADS’ mission to support the aerospace, defence, security and space sectors in Northern Ireland
  • ADS Northern Ireland represents over 140 member companies

Belfast (20 January 2025) – ADS, the UK trade association for the aerospace, defence, security and space, has today announced the appointment of Joseph Reffitt as its new Northern Ireland Director.

Having held senior positions in industry, including at HVM Catapult, Joseph is the latest individual to join the ADS senior leadership team, bringing a wealth of expertise to guide the trade association in championing ADS Northern Ireland industries.

Joseph succeeds Leslie Orr, who served in the role for 15 years. In his new position, Joseph will work closely with Jon Gray, ADS Chief of Staff and Managing Director of Regions, and Alan Henning, Chair of the ADS Northern Ireland Council, to strengthen ADS’ regional engagement and support for more than 140 ADS Northern Ireland member companies.

Kevin Craven, CEO of ADS Group, said:

“We are delighted to welcome Joseph as the new Director of ADS Northern Ireland. His experience and leadership will be invaluable as we aim to strengthen our regional engagement across Northern Ireland and build our Belfast-based team to ensure the industry receives the support it needs to grow and thrive.”

Alan Henning, Chair of the ADS Northern Ireland Council, commented:

“I am greatly looking forward to working with Joseph in his new role. His expertise and strategic insight will be pivotal as we continue to drive growth and success across Northern Ireland’s aerospace, defence, security, and space sectors.

“As an industry which already generates over £2.2 billion for the local economy, we are acutely aware of the region’s vast potential and the pressing need to unlock new opportunities to grow and prosper.”