Former Rolls-Royce CEO named chair of NATS

Hampshire-based air traffic services provider NATS has announced the appointment of Warren East as non-executive chair of the board.

He’s set to succeed current chair Dr Paul Golby, who’s held the role for the past 10 years, on 1st September 2024.

Warren served as CEO of Rolls-Royce between 2015 and 2022.

Prior to that, he spent almost 20 years with microprocessor manufacturers ARM Holdings, including 12 years as CEO.

He’s also currently a non-executive director for Tokamak Energy, C-Capture and ASML Holding, and formerly for Dyson, Micron, BT Group, Rolls-Royce and De La Rue.

Warren said: “Aviation is vital to our society and economy, and the essential infrastructure which NATS provides underpins that important function.

“The next decade or so brings huge challenge alongside multiple possibilities as the sector faces the necessity of the energy transition together with the opportunities presented by advancing technology.

“I’m delighted to be joining NATS to work with the board and the NATS team as we navigate through this exciting and crucial period.”

CEO Martin Rolfe added: “We very much look forward to working with Warren.

“His knowledge and insight into the aviation sector, the role of critical UK infrastructure and the experience he has of technology-led transformation will be enormously valuable.”

Dr Paul Golby joined the NATS board as chair in October 2014.

During his tenure, the company has made significant progress in the modernisation of both its technology and the design and operation of UK airspace, laying the foundation for much-needed improvements in carbon emissions from aviation.

Notably, he helped ensure air traffic services continued at all times during the Covid pandemic, and a subsequent return to financial stability in the years since.

Paul said: “It’s been a privilege to serve as chair through some of the most difficult times that NATS and the aviation sector as a whole have been through.

“I’d like to take the opportunity to thank everyone across the company – it’s through their tireless efforts that the UK has one of the very best air traffic services in the world.”

Martin praised Paul’s ‘blend of challenge and stability’ which ‘the entire company has appreciated enormously’.

“His leadership of the board and strategic guidance has helped us tackle the extraordinary challenges of the pandemic and subsequent rebuilding of the sector.

“We have a lot to thank him for and wish him well in the future.”