Horsham-based fire control, surveillance and positioning systems specialist Chess Dynamics, part of the Cohort plc Group, has appointed Andy Smith as its new managing director.
Andy brings more than 25 years of experience in the defence sector, including senior leadership positions at Leonardo and Marshall Land Systems.
Andy succeeds David Tuddenham as managing director, who oversaw the company’s growth in recent years and will continue Chess Dynamics’ commitment to delivering trusted solutions.
Andy said: “What drew me to Chess was the chance to work on complex technology with complex challenges. This is a company with innovative products and an impressive reputation, but just as importantly, it has a strong senior leadership team that is capable, committed and aligned on what it takes to succeed.
“The combination of strong products and strong people is what really made me want to be part of Chess.’
Andy highlighted that the company is entering a new phase focused on delivery, adding: “Right now, our priority is operational delivery. It’s a great position to be in, with a strong pipeline of orders and a team dedicated to fulfilling them.
“For me, success in the months ahead means keeping our foundations strong while investing in our people and driving growth across the business.
“Ultimately, our goal is simple: to ensure customers have the protection and performance they need to succeed in their missions.”
He added that his first impressions of Chess have been shaped by the people: “One of the first things I heard on the production line was, ‘we don’t have challenges, we only create solutions’. That mindset really reflects the determination and teamwork that runs through Chess.”
Andy’s wealth of experience lends itself perfectly to taking Chess Dynamics forward in the next stage of its journey. At Leonardo, he worked across electronic warfare and surveillance systems for Eurofighter Typhoon and helicopter platforms, later serving as vice president of engineering and vice president of operations.
He also played a central role in the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP), where he led collaboration between the UK, Japan and Italy on governance, intellectual property and system integration.
Andrew Thomis, chief executive of Cohort plc, said: “Chess Dynamics has built a strong reputation for delivering trusted solutions in surveillance, fire control and counter-UAS.
“Andy’s extensive experience in engineering and operations, combined with his collaborative leadership style, will support the company in turning a robust pipeline into successful delivery. This marks the start of an exciting new chapter for Chess Dynamics.”
