26 Apr 2001
BAE Systems has today announced Mr Mark Parkinson will succeed Mr Nigel Whitehead as Director of the Company's Hawk Lead-in Fighter operations based at Williamtown, NSW.
Mr Parkinson, who has 20 years experience with BAE Systems, has been Hawk Procurement Director and a member of the Hawk Board prior to this appointment.
He has extensive experience in supporting military aircraft and senior management on major programmes and will assume responsibility for the continued performance of the Hawk Lead-in Fighter, which entered service with the Royal Australian Air Force in October 2000.
"The Hawk Lead-in Fighter project has been an outstanding success story for BAE Systems," said Mr Parkinson.
"I am looking forward to working on this project and to partnering with the RAAF to ensure the Lead-in Fighter achieves its potential as the best advanced fast jet training system in the world."
Mr Whitehead has been appointed to the role of Managing Director - Astute having been responsible for Hawk operations in Australia since 1998. In this UK-based role, Mr Whitehead will lead BAE Systems' 2 billion Astute submarine project.
BAE Systems, as prime contractor, is undertaking the design, build and initial in-service support of three 7200 tonne Astute Class Submarines for the Royal Navy.
Commenting on his time as Director of the Lead-in Fighter Project for BAE Systems Mr Whitehead said, "I have been most fortunate to lead such a dedicated team. We have been able to provide the RAAF with an outstanding fast jet training capability and I wish Mark every success in his new role."
Issued by Corporate Affairs, BAE Systems Australia.
For further information please contact:
Susannah Owens
Public Relations Officer
Ph: (02) 9247 9622
Mob: 0414 463 717
or
Kathryn Andrews
Head of Corporate Affairs and Communication
Ph: (02) 9247 9622
Mob: 0418 838 632
