British aircraft manufacturer Britten-Norman has appointed Richard Milne as its new chief operating officer (COO).
Previously, Britten-Norman did not have a COO position, but the role has been newly created to accelerate the company’s growth plans, optimise deliveries, and scale its engineering operations and output.
As COO, Milne will oversee all day-to-day engineering operations, including design, manufacturing, supply chain, and aircraft maintenance operations, ensuring engineering and programme delivery are “closely integrated”.
His priorities will include driving greater efficiency with on-time delivery of aircraft and aftermarket support, while maintaining safety standards, build quality and durability for Britten-Norman's flagship Islander aircraft.
Milne brings to the role more than 30 years of aerospace leadership and expertise, having served most recently as director of manufacturing engineering at GKN Aerospace.
After starting his career as an aircraft fitter at Marshalls of Cambridge, Milne has since held leadership positions across aerospace design, maintenance and manufacturing.
Alison Rankin Frost, chair of Britten-Norman, said that Milne is joining at a “pivotal time” for the company.
“Richard’s expertise in both aircraft design and production will be instrumental as Britten-Norman strengthens and modernises its manufacturing capability,” she said.