Sir Kevin Smith receives tributes on retirement from GKN
Business Secretary Vince Cable said: “Sir Kevin has led GKN for the best part of a decade, delivering growth, increased productivity and diversification even in the face of one of the most challenging business periods in the company’s 250 year history. I would like to thank Sir Kevin for the considerable contribution that he has made to UK industry.”
Rees Ward, Chief Executive ADS said: “I would like to take this opportunity to highlight the active role which Sir Kevin has played in championing UK manufacturing globally and the aerospace and defence sectors in particular. His contribution to the Aerospace Business Leaders Group has been outstanding. On behalf of ADS and our members, I offer my best wishes for the future.”
Sir Kevin joined the Board of GKN plc in November 1999, when he was appointed Managing Director for GKN Aerospace. As well as GKN’s wholly-owned Aerospace Services Company, Kevin was responsible for the shareholdings in Alvis and the AgustaWestland Helicopter Joint Venture. He became Chief Executive of GKN plc 1 January 2003.
