Ian Thomson

Ian Thomson has a diverse work experience spanning various government departments and organizations. Ian currently works as a Commercial Adviser in the Defence Sector at the Infrastructure and Projects Authority (IPA), where they provide independent advice to senior program leaders and government decision-makers. Prior to this, Ian was the Head of Commercial Strategy and Policy at the Department for International Trade (DIT), where they were responsible for cross-cutting strategy and policy, budget management, and engagement with various programs and initiatives. Ian also served as the Commercial Projects and Business Development Lead at DIT, working on strategic analysis, business planning, and the establishment of the Government Commercial Organisation and Government Commercial Function.

Ian has also worked at the Cabinet Office, where they were involved with the Government Commercial Organisation. Additionally, their experience includes roles at the Defence Equipment & Support (DE&S), where they served as the Eurofighter Typhoon Project Team's Project Director and Capability Acquisition Senior Manager, leading strategic defense and security enhancement programs. Ian also held positions as the Senior Manager for Combat Air Strategic Programs and Head of Business for Future Supply Chain - International Contracts at DE&S, where they played a key role in managing the Eurofighter Typhoon defense acquisition program.

Before joining DE&S, Ian worked at the UK Ministry of Defence, starting as an Electrical Engineer and later serving as an Engineering Manager, Communication Systems In-Service Support Manager, and Investment Analyst for the Defense Equipment Program. In addition to their government roles, Ian also gained experience working as an Avionics Project Manager at Meggitt Avionics and as a Volunteer for Raleigh International in Namibia.

Overall, Ian Thomson has extensive experience in commercial strategy, policy development, project management, and defense acquisition. Ian has a proven track record of providing independent advice, managing budgets, and leading complex programs in the government sector.

Ian Thomson completed their education with a Bachelor of Engineering (BEng) degree in Electronic Engineering from the University of Surrey, which they obtained from 2001 to 2004. In 2009, they pursued a Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree at Cranfield School of Management, specializing in an unspecified field of study. Additionally, in 2010, Ian participated in the Cranfield MBA International Business Experience program in Costa Rica, offered by the INCAE Business School.

Ian has also obtained several certifications throughout their career. In January 2008, they achieved the APMP Professional certification from the Association for Project Management. In May 2019, they received the Accredited Associate Commercial Specialist certification from the Cabinet Office. Most recently, in July 2020, they became a MCIPS Chartered Procurement and Supply Professional, which they obtained from CIPS - The Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply.