Following a successful year as Business Development & Commercial Director, Gareth Bex has been appointed the new Managing Director at System Design Evaluation Ltd. Succeeding Torbjohn Lovseth, who has moved into the role of Chairman, Gareth will lead the company into the future.

With more than 30 years of experience in high threat, complex environments, Gareth is a Chartered Engineer with an MSc in Defence Technology. A dynamic leader and team-builder – he is used to leading people and leveraging technology – to deliver results. With a strong technical background, he is well-versed in: explosives engineering; high hazard environments; intelligence; counter-improvised threat capabilities, emerging technology; weapon systems; and capability management.

Gareth’s arrival at SDE in 2021 coincided with the emergence from the difficult period of the Coronavirus pandemic. For the defence industry the pandemic has not only accelerated the implementation of technology, but it has created the opportunity to step back and re-evaluate operations. SDE has adapted rapidly to flexible and remote working options, offering attractive opportunities to potential employees.  In addition, Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022 has shown the strategic imperative for a strong technologically advanced Defence Industry in the UK supporting our Armed Forces (and Allies).

Commenting on his appointment Gareth stated: “I’m really pleased to be picking up the reigns from Toby, who has done a fantastic job over the last two decades and ensured that SDE is where we are today – a highly respected independent engineering company. Although the lingering effects of the pandemic have made these last few years extremely difficult, SDE is well placed to capitalise on future opportunities that increased investment in Defence offers.  I am looking forward to this new chapter, as the MD, and expect the company to go from strength to strength – whilst remaining true to its core values and ethos – with the support of SDE’s truly exceptional staff ”.

October 2022