Faye Smith appointed new chair of Composites UK

 The British trade association Composites UK has just announced new appointments to its leadership team. Faye Smith is returning to the role of chair, which she previously held at Composites UK from June 2017 to March 2019. As director of Avalon Consultancy Services, she has played an important role in the evolution of the UK composites landscape. In particular, she has supported the creation of the UK Centre of Excellence for the Development and Application of Composite Materials (NCC) and the Composites Leadership Forum, a lobbying organisation for UK composites manufacturers. She has also served on the board of Composites UK for the past decade. With over 15 years’ experience in supporting foreign direct investment in materials across multiple sectors, Faye Smith has extensive expertise in developing strategies to address environmental challenges in the UK supply chain. She is an engineer and a member of the Institute of Materials, Minerals and Mining.

“I am delighted to return as Chair of Composites UK at such an important time for the sector. The composites industry has a pivotal role to play in addressing global sustainability challenges, and I look forward to working with the Board and members to ensure the UK continues to lead in innovation and growth.” she said.

A complementary duo

Faye Smith will be supported by a new Vice President, Adam Black, Managing Director of Multi-Ply Components Ltd, an international company supplying composite components to the medical sector. Adam Black brings his expertise in advanced manufacturing techniques and materials science, as well as a strategic vision of current and future trends in the field of composites. With nearly 30 years of experience in the composites industry, Adam Black has worked in the aerospace, defence, automotive, rail, construction, energy and medical sectors.

“It is an honour to be appointed Vice Chair of Composites UK. Having spent my career in composites, I am passionate about supporting our industry and driving forward strategies that will ensure its continued success on both the UK and global stage ” said Adam Black.

Before the new leadership was put in place, Composites UK went through a transition period during which Luke Vardy, from Cygnet Texkimp, took on the role of interim chair while the association’s new strategic direction was being established. Jen Hill of B&M Longworth and Professor Clara Frias of the Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre also provided leadership as co-chairs during this period. All three will continue to play an active role on the board of directors.