26 Jan 2008

Roke appoints new managing director

Roke appoints new managing director

United Kingdom, 2006-Oct-06

Roke Manor Research Limited, the leading research and development business, owned by Siemens, has announced the appointment of Dr David Smith as its new managing director

David Smith, 43, will succeed Paul Stein on 20 November 2006 and will be responsible for a company employing more than 450 employees, a turnover of £40M and a reputation for world-class research and development in both the defence and commercial sectors.

David Smith brings with him a wealth of experience. Having managed research in academia, and the development of military communication solutions for the MoD, he joined Roke in 2000. Following the technology crash in 2001, he became head of Roke’s wireless business, building up the division on the strength of its expertise in cellular technology and defence communications.

Dr Smith said Roke has a proud history and an exciting future: “I am looking forward to the challenge, building on our reputation for delivering high quality solutions to maximize the potential of our people, technology and products.”

Sir John Taylor, chairman of Roke Manor Research, said: “I am delighted that David has accepted this major role. He will be a worthy successor to Paul Stein who led the company so professionally over the past decade. Roke has a tremendous future ahead and I am looking forward to working with David and the whole team to make it happen.”

Alan Wood, UK chief executive of Siemens, also congratulated David. He said: “Innovation has always been the lifeblood of Siemens and the world-class expertise of our people has made Roke a highly valued part of Siemens in the UK.

“Roke has led the way for the last 50 years, developing pioneering products in areas ranging from wireless solutions to networking systems and electronic sensors. The business has an exciting future, not just in developing new products, but also in transforming our customers’ businesses and driving their success.”

Based in Romsey, Hampshire, Roke Manor Research is owned by Siemens. It is one of the UK’s leading research and development centres, specialising in electronic sensors, wireless communications, Internet and networking technologies. The company develops solutions for a diverse customer base including commercial, defence and government organisations. Projects range from feasibility studies, designs for high volume manufacture through to full-scale product development. For more information, please visit the company’s website: www.roke.co.uk

Mr. Sam Bradle
Roke Manor Research

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