Ian Oates has joined West Midlands Growth Company as the new Cluster Manager for the West Midlands Regional Defence & Security Cluster (WM RDSC), bringing extensive experience in operations, project management, communications and leadership across military and civilian environments.
In his new role, Ian will work with businesses, government, academia and partners across the defence and security community to strengthen connections, support collaboration and help organisations access new opportunities.
Supporting businesses to connect and grow
A key priority will be supporting SMEs and other organisations looking to engage with the defence and security sector.
Ian will help members navigate the defence landscape, build connections across the regional and national supply chain, and identify opportunities to collaborate, innovate and grow.
This will include connecting businesses with relevant partners, expertise and opportunities, while supporting the Cluster’s wider work to bring regional capability together in response to defence and security needs.
Delivering value for WM RDSC members
WM RDSC brings together businesses, universities, innovators, prime contractors and public sector partners from across the West Midlands.
Through events, member engagement and strategic initiatives, the Cluster provides opportunities for organisations to build relationships, share insight and develop new collaborations.
As Cluster Manager, Ian will play a central role in developing this activity and ensuring it continues to deliver practical value for members.
His appointment adds further capacity to the Cluster as it grows its network, develops new partnerships and strengthens the profile of West Midlands defence and security capability.
Working with the WM RDSC Advisory Board
Ian will also work closely with the recently announced WM RDSC Advisory Board, which has been established to provide strategic advice, challenge and advocacy as the Cluster develops.
The Board brings together senior experience from across defence, industry and the wider sector, helping to shape the Cluster’s priorities and identify opportunities where the West Midlands can make a stronger contribution.
Working alongside the Board and WM RDSC members, Ian will help turn that strategic insight into activity that supports businesses, strengthens partnerships and responds to the needs of the regional defence and security community.
His appointment comes as WM RDSC continues to expand its programme of engagement, events and strategic activity, with a focus on building regional capability, supporting innovation and helping organisations across the West Midlands access defence and security opportunities.