Chris Coates

Chris Coates is an accomplished aerospace engineering professional with extensive experience in management and leadership roles across the aviation sector. Currently serving as the Propellers Integrated Product Team Leader at Vertical Aerospace, Chris oversees the delivery of propeller systems for prototype aircraft, managing a significant budget and multiple international suppliers. Previously, Chris held positions including Senior Programme Manager at Vertical Aerospace, where critical milestones such as the first flight of a prototype aircraft were achieved, and Sustainable Mobility Manager at Deloitte. Chris's career is rooted in the Royal Air Force, where responsibilities spanned various engineering and management roles, including Continuing Airworthiness Manager for the VIP Fleet and Senior Maintenance Manager for the Airborne Early Warning Fleet. Chris holds a Master of Engineering in Aeronautical Engineering from the University of Bristol and additional qualifications in Renewable Energy Systems Technology and Strategic Leadership.