Senior appointments at Cobham

Posted on 3 Apr 2013

Aerospace communications group Cobham has appointed two senior executives to newly established executive vice president positions.

David Ashton, the new EVP for Business Development & Technology at Cobham

David Ashton, vice president of Cobham’s Tactical Communications & Surveillance strategic business unit, will become executive vice president (EVP) for Business Development & Technology. Julian Hellebrand, chief of staff to the CEO and group director of communications, will become EVP for Lifecycle Management & Programme Management at the global aerospace company.

“These appointments are in line with our strategy to return Cobham to sustainable, organic growth,” said Cobham plc chief executive officer Bob Murphy.

Both appointments take effect from April 15, 2013.

Mr. Ashton will report directly to the CEO and become a member of the company’s group executive committee. “David’s appointment will optimise the group’s ability to ensure the right solutions are available when customers need them,” Bob Murphy said.

Ashton will be based at Cobham in Arlington, Virginia and will continue to lead the TC&S business until a successor is appointed.

Julian Hellebrand becomes EVP of Life Cycle and Programme Management at Cobham

Mr. Hellebrand has more than 25-years of experience in project and programme management roles, working on development and aftermarket projects in locations globally.

“Julian’s appointment will provide momentum and visibility on this critical competency, because programme execution is vital to delivering organic growth, as consistent delivery of customer expectations is the bedrock upon which organic growth is built,” Cobham’s CEO added.

Based in Wimborne in the UK, Hellebrand will continue to report directly to the CEO and remains a member of the group executive committee.