Leading maritime engineering and ship repair specialist UK Docks Marine Services has appointed Lesley Hawke MIEx as Defence Programme and Partnerships Manager, further strengthening its business development capabilities and expanding its engagement across the UK defence and maritime sectors.
Based at the company’s headquarters in South Shields, Lesley will work across the wider group of companies, supporting the development of strategic partnerships, identifying new business opportunities and strengthening relationships with defence organisations, industry partners and the wider supply chain.
£250 million for the global in-service support of five Royal Navy River Class Offshore Patrol Vessels, alongside its established support for HMS Protector. More recently, the business secured three contracts worth more than £80 million under the Ministry of Defence’s Boats In-Service Support programme.
Lesley brings extensive experience in defence industry engagement, regional economic development and supply chain collaboration. She previously served as Project Manager for the North East Regional Defence and Security Cluster (NERDSC), helping to facilitate engagement between defence organisations, regional businesses, government agencies and academic institutions. Her previous roles have also included leading supply chain development programmes for Sunderland City Council and Tees Valley Combined Authority.
Jonathan Wilson, Managing Director of UK Docks Marine Services, said:
“We are delighted to welcome Lesley to UK Docks.
Having worked closely with her through the North East Regional Defence and Security Cluster, we have seen first-hand the knowledge, enthusiasm and commitment she brings to connecting businesses and creating opportunities across the defence sector.
As the business continues to grow, we recognise the importance of strengthening our industry relationships, developing new partnerships and identifying opportunities to expand the services and capabilities we provide.”
Commenting on her appointment, Lesley Hawke said:
“I am delighted to be joining UK Docks at such an exciting stage in the company’s development.
Having worked closely with UK Docks through the North East Regional Defence and Security Cluster, I have seen first-hand the breadth of capabilities and expertise across the business and the opportunities that exist for further growth.
I am passionate about bringing businesses and organisations together, developing meaningful partnerships and helping industry access new opportunities within the defence sector.”
Operating from facilities in South Shields, Teesside, Gosport and Cremyll, UK Docks Marine Services provides integrated maritime engineering, ship repair and technical ship management services to commercial and defence customers across the UK and internationally.
The appointment reflects the company’s continued investment in its people and business development capabilities as it supports major defence programmes and works with partners across the maritime sector.
Interested in Defence Sector Opportunities?
Businesses looking to explore opportunities within the growing UK defence supply chain can find out more at our upcoming Get into Defence: The Fundamentals event. The session is designed to help businesses understand defence procurement, supply chain opportunities and the support available to enter the sector.
Find out more and register:
👉 Get into Defence: The Fundamentals
https://investsouthtyneside.com/event/get-into-defence-the-fundamentals/
