As Head of Innovation for Maritime and Land Defence at BAE Systems and a Reservist of 25 years, who is preparing to take command of HMS Cambria, Mike’s career is defined by a unique synergy – with each role continuously informing and strengthening the other.
Mike began his military journey in the Army Reserve, commissioning as an officer and deploying to Iraq in 2003. “I had the immense privilege to lead my Reservist soldiers during the invasion – an experience not many junior officers get,” he says. Over the years, he’s taken on a wide range of roles, from representing the UK in NATO settings to serving aboard Royal Navy ships.
He’s also spent time embedded with US forces on exchange, where he supported joint operations and took on leadership duties alongside international colleagues. One memorable moment came when he was asked to step up as acting commander of an allied unit, briefing a three-star general during a major NATO exercise. “You’re expected to step up,” he says. “In those moments, it doesn’t matter whether you’re part-time or full-time – you’re the UK representative.”
When Mike joined BAE Systems, he transferred to the Royal Naval Reserve, feeling a strong connection between his civilian role in maritime innovation and his military duties. “There’s a natural synergy between the two,” he says.“Being a Reservist gives me an insight into what our end users actually face – their real-world challenges, what would make their jobs easier and how technology might play a role.”
This insight directly shapes his approach at BAE Systems, where no two days are the same. Whether exploring technologies like autonomy and sensing capabilities, meeting with industry partners, or attending defence exhibitions, Mike brings a user-first mindset to every project. “I sometimes describe my role as being a bit of a pollinator of ideas,” he adds. “I move across different teams and programmes, helping connect dots between people, projects and opportunities.”
His time on Royal Navy vessels also keeps him grounded in the practical realities of military life. Most recently, he joined HMS Albion on its return to the UK from deployment, spending time with the crew and experiencing life on board. “Being close to the operational environment helps keep your thinking practical,” he explains. “You’re not just working on tech for the sake of it – you’re thinking about how it will actually be used at sea.”
In return, the skills developed through being a Reservist – from leadership and planning to public speaking under pressure – have proved invaluable. “There’s a military approach to problem-solving that’s incredibly useful in business,” he explains. “You work backwards from the effect you need to achieve, then figure out the logical steps to get there. That way of thinking has really helped me in my day-to-day role.”
Mike also points to the soft skills Reservist life quietly cultivates – confidence, adaptability and clear communication. “Sometimes you don’t notice it in yourself until someone else points it out,” he adds. “But having represented the UK in uniform and briefed senior commanders, those experiences definitely shape how you carry yourself.”
“Taking on command means more responsibility, but my team has been brilliant in helping shape how we’ll make it work.”
He’s quick to highlight the support BAE Systems provides to enable his dual career. From flexible working hours and special paid leave to a workplace culture where Reservists are understood and valued, Mike describes the company as “one of the most Reservist-friendly organisations” he’s worked in. He also credits communities like VetNet, the internal network for veterans and Reservists and a line manager who, being ex-Royal Navy himself, “just gets it.”
“There’s a shared understanding here,” he says. “You don’t have to explain the demands of Reservist life – people just get it.”
That support is especially important now as Mike prepares to take command this autumn of HMS Cambria, a Royal Naval Reserve unit in Cardiff– a significant milestone in his Reservist journey. The timing feels particularly special, as BAE Systems is currently building HMS Cardiff, a new Type 26 frigate, in Glasgow. “There’s something quite nice about that connection,” Mike says.
Mike’s dual career path is far from conventional – but in defence, it’s a reminder that real-world experience and innovation go hand in hand. He adds, “BAE Systems doesn’t just support Reservists – it understands how to make the most of the skills we bring. We’re all on the same team.”