Blakeney brings to GE a wealth of manufacturing experience within the aviation industry, having held a number of directorial positions in businesses across the UK, and with a proven track record of leading sites and driving improvements.

In his role, Blakeney will be responsible for continuing and developing the business’ strategy to satisfy the needs of its customer base. He will also focus on securing future growth by working to upskill the factory, building upon the capabilities of the site in readiness to receive the new GE9X engine when it enters service in 2020.

On the new appointment, president & CEO of GE UK and Ireland, Kevin O’Neill, commented: “This is a pivotal time for Nick to be joining GE Aviation Wales as the facility looks to prepare for the arrival of the new GE9X engine. We are delighted to welcome Nick to GE, and have full confidence that he will be a strong leader. With Nick’s excellent track record and fresh perspective, this is an exciting next step for GE Aviation Wales.”

The new appointment for the engine overhaul site in Nantgarw comes following the departure of former site leader La-Chun Lindsay, who is now based at the GE Aviation headquarters in Evendale, Cincinnati, Ohio.

Based in Nantgarw, just north of Cardiff, GE Aviation Wales employs a highly-skilled workforce and specialises in the maintenance, repair and overhaul of a range of commercial jet engines. One of the largest aircraft engine maintenance facilities in the world, the business has capabilities to handle more than 450 engines a year and works with over 90 customers worldwide, including Emirates, easyJet and British Airways.

The site specialises in four engine types including: the GE90; the GP7200, the engine that powers the Airbus A380; and the complete range of CFM56 engines.

In March 2017, the business was named the GE Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul facility for the GE9X, due to launch into service in 2020.

On his appointment, GE Aviation Wales managing director, Nick Blakeney, said: “I am thrilled to be joining GE Aviation Wales. With an emphasis on quality and excellent service for our customers, the company has an incredibly positive reputation on both a local and a global scale. I am continually learning how the site operates on a day-to-day basis, and am looking forward to developing our business strategy in order to drive success and continue to deliver the outstanding service our customers have grown to expect from us.”

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