The British Chamber of Commerce Abu Dhabi (BCCAD) has appointed Jonathan Bird, BAE Systems’ UAE Country Director, to lead its specialist defence sector cluster. He will play a pivotal role in fostering relationships and building collaboration between the UAE and UK defence industries.

Jonathan Bird, BAE Systems’ UAE Country Director, said:

“The BCCAD is well placed to accelerate business opportunities between the UAE and Britain. It has a long-established track record of success spanning nearly 30 years. In addition to my role at BAE Systems, I look forward to taking on board the challenge for the defence industry, which offers rewarding commercial opportunities together with critical knowledge transfer.”

Jonathan has led a number of high profile education initiatives in the Gulf region, such as the acclaimed Make It Challenge, run successfully across the UAE for nearly 10 years. Internships are another area where his leadership has delivered significant results in promoting awareness of the vital role STEM subjects play in the diversification of local economies. Four Emirati students are currently undertaking placements at BAE Systems’ facilities in the UK, where they’re developing their technical and engineering skills in the space and cyber domains.