Richard Milne, chief operating officer at Britten-NormanBritten-Norman has appointed Richard Milne as chief operating officer (COO) to spearhead growth in production of its Islander and Defender aircraft. The newly created role is designed to sharpen focus on efficient delivery, accelerate growth plans, and scale engineering operations and output.
Mr Milne brings over 30 years of aerospace leadership experience, most recently as manufacturing engineering director at GKN Aerospace. He began his career as an aircraft fitter at Marshalls of Cambridge and has since held senior positions across aerospace design, maintenance, and manufacturing.
Alison Rankin Frost, chair of Britten-Norman’s board, said: “Richard’s expertise in both aircraft design and production will be instrumental as Britten-Norman strengthens and modernises its manufacturing capability. We are delighted to have him join the leadership team at such a pivotal time for the company.”
As COO, Mr Milne will oversee day-to-day engineering operations, including design, manufacturing, supply chain, and aircraft maintenance. His priorities include driving efficiency, ensuring on-time delivery of aircraft and aftermarket support, and maintaining world-class safety standards alongside the exceptional build quality for which the Islander is renowned.
Mr Milne, chief operating officer at Britten-Norman, said: “I am honoured to take on the role of COO of such a prestigious business as it enters this new and exciting chapter. Alongside the senior leadership team and the board, I look forward to helping steer the company through its next phase of growth — contributing to setting the strategic direction while also ensuring we deliver operational excellence. Together, we will strengthen Britten-Norman’s engineering capability and deliver the next generation of Islanders and Defenders to our global customers.”