Image courtesy Cohort
 
As COO, Chris Axcell (above) will work alongside the Group Chief Executive to provide oversight and strengthen operational performance across the Group. This will see him provide advice and expertise on manufacturing and operational efficiency, as well as support the increase of production capacity as demand for the Group’s defence solutions grows. He will also play a key role in identifying future acquisition targets.  

 
Chris joins Cohort plc from Leonardo UK where he held multiple technical and leadership roles including VP Surveillance & Protection Technologies, VP Sensors and most recently, SVP Integrated Sensing & Protection (ISP). As SVP, Chris was responsible for the £300 million revenue ISP line of business, along with its 1,000 employees and two UK sites, delivering sustained organic growth ahead of market Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR). In Chris’ portfolio were products across electro-optics (EO), electronic warfare (EW) and communications, technology domains directly relevant to Cohort plc.  
 
Chris Axcell, Chief Operating Officer at Cohort plc said: “The UK defence industry is currently in a critical period, with businesses ready to respond to the ambitions set out by the Strategic Defence Review and increased global defence spend. Cohort’s unique model enables highly capable, specialist businesses to scale rapidly while retaining the agility of SMEs. This will be crucial as governments seek faster capability delivery and resilient supply chains.  
 
“I look forward to bringing my experience of enhancing operational performance within a large defence company to help drive Cohort’s growth, while preserving the agility, autonomy and distinct identities that set our subsidiaries apart.”  
 
Chris joins the existing Cohort executive team which includes Andy Thomis, Chief Executive and Simon Walther, Group Finance Director.  
 
Andy Thomis, Chief Executive of Cohort plc said “The creation of the COO role and Chris’ appointment will strengthen the Group’s ability to scale and deliver at pace. Chris brings extensive experience and expertise in managing business operations within the defence sector, and deep industry knowledge and values that will enhance operations across the Group. 
 
“I look forward to working closely with Chris as we support our subsidiaries in meeting the increasing demand for their capabilities across the land and maritime domains.”