Shawn BlackPresident of Defense, GKN Aerospace

With almost 20 years’ experience in the Aerospace & Defence sector across both programme management, P&L and operational roles, Shawn started his career as a United States Marine Corps Officer before moving into business roles. He spent 15 years with Leonardo DRS starting in business development and programme management roles before becoming VP GM of their Electro Optical & Infrared Systems business.

In 2018, Shawn joined Cobham Plc as Chief Operating Officer of their CAES business before being appointed to CEO of Cobham’s Advanced Electronic Solutions Inc. (CAES). Shawn led this SSA part of Cobham’s business through the acquisition by Advent.

Across his career, Shawn has developed a reputation for driving business improvements at pace through commercial and operational actions.