Bridge returns to Gulf in key BAE Systems role

Playing a key role in forging partnerships and joint ventures, Bridge will be responsible for the markets of UAE, Qatar, Kuwait and Bahrain, and will work closely with BAE Systems’ Managing Director in Oman. Bridge has previous experience in the Middle East with BAE Systems and was based in the Gulf between 2001 and 2007, before spending a couple of years as BAE Systems’ Regional Vice President for Africa.  

Commenting on the appointment, Simon Keith, managing director, Middle East, Africa & Asia Pacific for BAE Systems, said; “Ben has played a key role in developing BAE Systems’ business interests in the Middle East region and his appointment is another important step in strengthening relationships with our customers and industrial partners.  BAE Systems has a global track record of partnering and this is an area we are focusing on in the Gulf region, particularly in the UAE.”

Before joining BAE Systems in 1998 Ben qualified as a pilot and as an Arabic linguist in the Royal Navy.  He then served as an Assistant Defence Attaché in the British Embassies in Cairo and Kuwait. 

Bridge said “BAE Systems has a long association with this region, of which we are proud.  I am greatly looking forward to continuing to develop those important relationships.  The security market, including cyber, is increasing in importance in the region and my recent experience at Detica will be invaluable as BAE Systems strengthens its footprint in this growing area.”