Ian Ritchey named new deputy chair of Enginuity Group

The appointment strengthens the Board at a time when the UK engineering and manufacturing sector navigates a period of rapid change.

Ritchey brings a wealth of experience from across highly technical industries, including aerospace, defence, marine, nuclear and energy, and a proven track record of leading complex engineering organisations and programmes. His insight will be invaluable as Enginuity continues to champion an employer-led skills system that equips businesses with the talent they need now and into the future. 

In his role as deputy chair, he will work closely with chair Jim McDonald, the Board and the Executive Team to help shape Enginuity’s strategic direction and support collaboration between industry, education and government. 

"We are delighted to welcome Ian as deputy chair of Enginuity Group. He brings outstanding engineering leadership experience and a deep understanding of the skills challenges facing employers today," said Ann Watson, CEO of Enginuity.

"His breadth of experience across demanding sectors will help us as we work with partners to strengthen the UK’s engineering and manufacturing skills system."

Ritchey is widely respected in the engineering community and has held senior leadership positions at Rolls-Royce, including head of aerospace research and technology, defence engineering director, executive vice-president engineering and technology for Commercial Marine, and, most recently, group chief engineer, where he led the global engineering function. 

He holds degrees from Cambridge and Stanford Universities, is a Chartered Engineer and a Fellow of the Royal Academy of Engineering, where he chairs the Education and Skills Committee. Ritchey is an Honorary Professor at Durham University, where he supports research, teaching and industry engagement, a Governor of Education Partnership North East and a Director of Connect Northumberland, an employer-led workforce development initiative.

"I am pleased to join Enginuity Group," he stated. "Engineering and manufacturing are central to the UK’s economy and to tackling major challenges such as net zero, productivity and technological change.

"A strong, coherent skills system is essential to ensure employers have the talent they need. Enginuity’s role in connecting industry, education and policymakers is critical, and I look forward to working with Sir Jim, Ann and the Board to advance this important work."

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