Building on Strength, Looking to the Future: Dr Ged O’Dwyer Named New Chairperson of NWAA

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Ged-O'Dwyer

A new era of leadership, growth & commitment to members
The North West Aerospace Alliance (NWAA) is delighted to announce the appointment of Dr Ged O’Dwyer as our new Chairman. With over four decades of experience in the aerospace industry, Dr O’Dwyer brings exceptional insight, energy, and leadership to guide the organisation through its next exciting chapter.

A Message from Dr Ged O’Dwyer
“I just wanted to say hello and introduce myself to you as your new Chairman. I am truly honoured to have been asked to take up this position and I look forward with genuine enthusiasm and determination to ensuring our amazing organisation continues to grow and deliver an even better level of service and commitment to you, our valued members.”

Dr O’Dwyer also took a moment to acknowledge his predecessor, Andy Schofield, who has led the Board with passion and dedication over the past three years.

“I would like to express my deepest thanks to Andy for his tireless commitment. His leadership through the post-COVID period has created a strong management culture and structure that will continue to underpin our success.”

A Lifetime in Aerospace
Dr O’Dwyer’s career spans over 45 years in the aerospace and defence sector, predominantly with MBDA UK, where he progressed from a Technical Apprentice to Deputy Manufacturing Director UK. His experience includes senior positions across Manufacturing, Programmes, and Functional Management, as well as significant international work with MBDA’s French, Italian, and German national companies.

Reflecting on his journey, Dr O’Dwyer shared:

“I’ve witnessed the highs and lows of our industry through challenging decades. Organisations like NWAA played a vital role in championing UK capability and helping to rebuild the sector, particularly here in the North West. That commitment continues to inspire me today.”

Driving NWAA’s Strategic Vision
Having served as an NWAA Non-Executive Director for the past three years, Dr O’Dwyer has already seen the organisation’s incredible momentum. Membership has grown from around 90 in 2023 to more than 240 today, supported by the expanding operational team under Paula Gill, CEO NWAA who continue to deliver high-quality events, training, and opportunities.

Looking ahead to 2026, Dr O’Dwyer has outlined three key strategic priorities for NWAA:

  • Increase member satisfaction and growth | enhancing value and engagement.
  • Strengthen NWAA’s financial stability | ensuring long-term sustainability.
  • Improve engagement with local and national government | driving investment into the North West.

Preparing for the Future
Under Dr O’Dwyer’s leadership, NWAA will continue to deliver programmes focused on digital transformation, cybersecurity, ESG initiatives, and workforce development—all designed to ensure members are well-prepared to seize new opportunities in a rapidly evolving marketplace.

“Our mission remains clear: to make sure every member is match-fit to win new business and thrive in emerging markets. Together, we’ll strengthen the North West’s position as a world-class hub for aerospace and advanced engineering.”

Looking Ahead
The entire NWAA team welcomes Dr O’Dwyer to his new role and looks forward to working alongside him as we continue to champion innovation, collaboration, and growth across the region’s aerospace sector.

“I look forward to working with all of you as we build on our strong foundations and take NWAA to even greater heights.”
Dr Ged O’Dwyer, Chairperson, NWAA

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