ATI appoints new non-executive directors

Posted on 9 February, 2021 by Advance 

The Aerospace Technology Institute (ATI) has appointed three new non-executive directors to its board. Janet Collyer, Paul Everitt and Ben Stocks join the ATI, replacing retiring directors Deborah Keith, Michael Harper and Scott Tolson. ATI chairman Stephen Ball said: “I am delighted to welcome Janet, Paul and Ben to the board. They each bring an excellent track record, a wealth of expertise, and diverse skills that will enrich the organisation. The ATI is unique, operating between the public and private sectors and discharging a great responsibility in shaping the future of aerospace through technology. The challenges currently facing the sector make the ATI’s mission more important than ever.

“Janet, Paul and Ben will provide strong leadership to ensure that the ATI continues to function excellently now and into the future. I also want to thank Deborah, Michael and Scott for their service. They have made a huge contribution to the ATI’s success since its creation and helped build the impactful organisation it has become. I wish them well for the future.”

Janet Collyer attended school in Uganda and graduated in engineering from Girton College, Cambridge University. She has spent the last three decades with Cadence Design Systems, a worldwide software business for electronic systems design.  Always operating at the leading edge of technology, recently including innovative 5G and AI enabled systems, she held a wide range of management positions from engineering through customer support to strategic sales, international key account management and ecosystem collaboration. Janet has also been active in enabling early-stage technology start-ups to grow their businesses. She actively supports career progression for women in engineering, providing mentoring up to senior director level.

Janet said: “I am delighted to be joining the ATI board at this time. It plays a vital role in shaping the future of aerospace, and I am excited by the goal of driving forward the strategic innovation and next-generation technology essential for a sustainable and successful industry.”



Paul Everitt (above) has been chief executive of two major UK trade associations (ADS and SMMT) and played a leading role in promoting industrial partnership between business and Government. He has been a member of the Automotive Council and the Aerospace Growth Partnership. Paul has also been Chairman of Farnborough International Ltd overseeing the development of a permanent exhibition and conference centre and the diversification of its business.

Paul said: “I am delighted to be joining the ATI board at such a significant time. Meeting the net zero challenge is a fantastic opportunity for UK industry and the ATI has a crucial role in securing economic and environmental success.”

Ben Stocks is Chief Executive of Porvair plc, which he joined in 1998 following a career with Courtaulds and Carnaud Metalbox.  He has overseen the development of Porvair into a specialist filtration, laboratory and environmental technology company with a strong focus on innovation and service to a wide range of industrial customers across many sectors including aerospace. Ben has an MA from St Andrews University and an MBA from INSEAD.

Ben said: “The ATI has a very exciting role and its influence touches the whole industry. A huge programme of innovation will be needed in the next few years and it will be a privilege to contribute to it.”