Published 17 May 2023

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DE&S has welcomed two new Non-Executive Directors to the DE&S Board. Marc Overton and Nick Folland have joined the DE&S Board, replacing two of our longest serving NEDs, Ros Rivaz and Iain Lanaghan.

The DE&S Chair, Mark Russell said:

“I am delighted that Marc and Nick are joining us at this exciting time for DE&S.  These experienced and high calibre individuals will enhance the Board’s existing skill-set and our ability to support, challenge and advise the CEO and executive team.”

Andy Start, DE&S CEO, also welcomed the appointments, saying:

“I very much look forward to working with our new Non-Executive Directors, both of whom have a wealth of experience to share. Their insight and support will undoubtedly help us in our drive to optimise DE&S and deliver more of what our Armed Forces need to protect the nation.”

About Marc Overton

Marc Overton has run a number of international technology businesses and digital transformation programmes. His previous roles include General Manger (Europe) for First Data, Managing Director for CISCO’s Internet of Things business and Chief Solutions Officer for Sierra Wireless.  He is currently Managing Director of BT’s Division X.  As a long-serving Reservist, Marc’s military career has included commanding the London Regiment and being Head Strategy (Reserves) at Army HQ where he helped create Project THEIA the Army’s digital transformation programme.  He is currently Assistant Chief of the Defence Staff (Reserves & Cadets).

About Nick Folland

Nick Folland has an extensive legal and governance background and from 2001, he held a number of General Counsel and Company Secretary positions in FTSE 100 businesses.  He served as Company Secretary for Barclays Bank, Chief Executive of the Crown Prosecution Service and was the Chair of the NERC Audit & Risk Assurance Committee (A&RAC).  Nick is currently the General Counsel and Company Secretary of Marks & Spencer Group plc, where he is a member of the Executive Committee and has responsibility for governance, legal affairs and mergers and acquisitions activity.  He is also an independent Non-Executive Director on the HM Prisons & Probation Service A&RAC.