SVGC MD Appointed Chair of techUK’s Defence SME Forum

by | Jan 29, 2025

Tech

SVGC is proud to announce that our Managing Director, Dr Andrew Dixon, has been appointed as the Chair of techUK’s Defence SME Forum and will also sit on the TechUK Defence Board. This prestigious role reflects Dr Dixon’s dedication to fostering innovation, collaboration, and growth within the defence and technology sector.

With over three decades of experience spanning aerospace, defence, and security, Andrew Dixon has held key roles at BAE Systems, European Aeronautic Defence and Space Company (EADS), and the Ministry of Defence before leading SVGC. Under his leadership, SVGC has evolved from its initial focus on supporting the Ministry of Defence to delivering systems engineering, data science, and digital solutions that transform business processes across the wider public sector.

For the past three years, Andrew has served as Vice-Chair of the Defence & Security SME Forum (DSSMEF), where he has been instrumental in driving SME engagement, championing new approaches to collaboration, and challenging conventional thinking within larger organisations. His efforts have been pivotal in building trust and fostering partnerships between SMEs and larger entities in the defence sector. 

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Andrew’s commitment to collaboration extends beyond his role at SVGC. He has served as Chair of the Small Business Forum for the Institute for Collaborative Working and continues to contribute as an external examiner for Cranfield University’s Battlespace Technology course. These roles underscore his passion for uniting public and private organisations, academia, and industry to drive technological innovation and deliver impactful solutions.

In his new position as Chair of the Defence SME Forum, Andrew aims to leverage his extensive experience in defence acquisition, strategy, and innovation to:

  • Amplify the voice of SMEs within the defence sector.
  • Promote collaboration between diverse stakeholders.
  • Encourage the adoption of innovative technologies and approaches.
  • Strengthen the UK’s national defence programme.
Dr Andrew Nixon

“I am honoured to take on the role of Chair for techUK’s Defence SME Forum. SMEs are the backbone of innovation in the defence and technology sector, and their role has never been more critical. TechUK has rightly been championing the UK “DefTech” sector. My focus will be on fostering collaboration, driving innovation, and ensuring that SMEs have the support and opportunities they need to thrive in this vital industry.”

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