Composites UK is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Faye Smith OBE as its new Chair and Adam Black as Vice Chair, effective immediately.
Faye returns to the role of Chair, having previously held the position at Composites UK from June 2017 – March 2019. With over 15 years of experience supporting materials-related foreign direct investment across multiple sectors, she brings a wealth of expertise in developing strategies that address the environmental, sustainability, and resilience challenges of the UK supply chain.
As Director of Avalon Consultancy Services, Faye has been instrumental in shaping the UK composites landscape. Her contributions include helping to deliver two UK Composite Strategies, supporting the establishment of the NCC and the Composites Leadership Forum, and serving on the Composites UK Board for the past decade. She is a Chartered Engineer and a Fellow of the Institute of Materials, Minerals and Mining.
Joining her as the new Vice Chair is Adam Black, Managing Director of Multi-Ply Components Ltd. With nearly 30 years of experience in the composites industry, Adam has worked across aerospace, defence, automotive, rail, construction, energy, and medical markets. At Multi-Ply, he leads a global business delivering innovative, high-quality composite components for the medical sector.
Adam brings with him not only technical expertise in advanced manufacturing techniques and materials science but also a strategic perspective on current and future trends in composites. His commitment to driving growth in the UK composites industry and strengthening international collaboration aligns closely with Composites UK’s mission.
Composites UK would like to thank Luke Vardy of Cygnet Texkimp for stepping into the acting Chair role as the association’s new strategic direction was established. The organisation extends further gratitude to Jen Hill of B&M Longworth and Prof. Clara Frias of the Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre for their leadership as co-Vice Chairs during this transition. All three will continue to play an active role on the Board of Directors.
Speaking on her appointment, Faye said: “I am delighted to return as Chair of Composites UK at such an important time for the sector. The composites industry has a pivotal role to play in addressing global sustainability challenges, and I look forward to working with the Board and members to ensure the UK continues to lead in innovation and growth.”
Adam Black added: “It is an honour to be appointed Vice Chair of Composites UK. Having spent my career in composites, I am passionate about supporting our industry and driving forward strategies that will ensure its continued success on both the UK and global stage.”
The Operations Team at Composites UK look forward to working closely with Faye and Adam over the coming months.
Website: www.compositesuk.co.uk