Darren Jones Ceng Fimeche

Darren Jones has extensive work experience in the defense and engineering fields. Darren is currently the Head of Defence Business at Surrey Satellite Technology Ltd (SSTL) since 2022. Prior to this, they served as the Deputy Safety Director (Head of Strategy, Policy, Governance and Risk) in the Royal Navy from 2021 to 2022. From 2019 to 2021, they worked as the Head of Operations for Merlin Helicopters in Defence Equipment & Support (DE&S). Darren also held various roles in the Royal Navy, including Fleet Senior Air Engineer from 2018 to 2019 and Executive Officer and Head of Design Organisation for 1710 Naval Air Squadron from 2016 to 2018. Before that, Darren served as the Certification Manager and Structural Airworthiness Lead in the Military Aviation Authority from 2014 to 2016. Darren also had roles in the Royal Navy as the Head of Air Engineering Policy and Plans from 2011 to 2013, Senior Recruiter from 2009 to 2011, Air Engineer Officer for 857 Naval Air Squadron from 2007 to 2008, Deputy Air Engineer Officer for 849 Naval Air Squadron in 2007, and Ship Air Interface Desk Officer from 2006 to 2007. Darren started their career with the UK Ministry of Defence in the Defence Engineering and Science Group Development Scheme from 1999 to 2004.Throughout their career, Darren has demonstrated leadership and expertise in safety management, engineering support, policy development, and project management. Darren is a Chartered Engineer and a Fellow of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (FIMechE).

Darren Jones CEng FIMechE has a Master of Science degree in Aerospace Vehicle Design (Aircraft Design) from Cranfield University, obtained in 2014. Darren also holds a Level 7 Certificate in Strategic Management and Leadership from the Chartered Management Institute, obtained in 2011. Their undergraduate education consists of a Master of Engineering degree in Aerospace Engineering from the University of Bath, completed in 2004. Darren completed their A-Levels at Pate's Grammar School in Cheltenham between 1997 and 1999. Darren received their GCSEs from Winchcombe School between 1992 and 1997. In 2010, they became a Chartered Engineer through the Engineering Council.