Defence giant Raytheon's new boss vows to 'invest' in firm's UK hubs

Jeff Lewis has been appointed the new chief executive and managing director of Raytheon UK.

The defence and aerospace giant operates a number of sites across the UK, including a base at Havant’s Langstone Technology Park.

Mr Lewis, who joined Raytheon from Babcock Marine in May 2019 as chief operating officer, takes over from Richard Daniel, who is shifting to a new advisory role following six years at the helm.

Speaking of his ambition to drive the company forward, Mr Lewis said: ‘Despite the challenging environment, this is an exciting time to be taking the reins at Raytheon UK.

‘Richard passes on the baton with the foundations for further growth well established. We will continue as a vital partner to the UK government, investing in our sites across the country and partnering to develop the capabilities we will need for the future.

‘In the immediacy, my priority is to continue ensuring the health, safety, and wellbeing of all our employees while delivering for our customers.’

Mr Lewis has most recently spearheaded the company’s rapid response to the ventilator shortage in the UK, joining industrial partners to meet the challenge of producing ventilators to support the NHS and the public in this time of crisis.

Within six weeks, under his leadership, the team established production lines at Glenrothes, Raytheon UK’s largest manufacturing facility in the UK and set up a new facility in Livingston Fife to help manufacture ventilators.

Paying tribute to Mr Lewis, his predecessor Mr Daniel said: ‘Since joining Raytheon UK, Jeff has quickly grasped the potential in our business, our teams, and our operations across the UK.

‘I know Raytheon will continue to grow with Jeff at the helm. It has been a privilege to lead the UK.’

Mr Lewis has previously worked at The Weir Group PLC and Balfour Beatty.

Raytheon’s base in Havant provides spares and service support for naval ships visiting or based at UK ports.

Its main focus is supporting the integrated navigation and bridge systems in service on the Royal Navy’s £6bn fleet of Type 45 destroyers.

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