Andrew Churchill, who joined the ERA Foundation Board in 2020, brings exceptional expertise as the Chairman of JJ Churchill Ltd, an aerospace precision-engineering business based in the Midlands. His appointment represents the Foundation’s continued commitment to supporting the UK’s high-tech manufacturing sector.
Churchill’s leadership comes at a pivotal time for British engineering. He steps into the role previously held by Professor Sir Christopher Snowden, who retires after distinguished service to the organisation.
Reflecting on this transition, Sir Alan Rudge, President of the ERA Foundation, stated: “In 2025 the ERA Foundation will be celebrating its 25th Anniversary. However the year is also significant in that it marks the retirement of our Chairman, Sir Christopher Snowden. Chris has served as a member and then chairman of the Board for fourteen of those years, a length of service and commitment that is unlikely to be matched in the foreseeable future. His many contributions to the Foundation’s activities and his excellent leadership of the Board have done much to help shape our strategic development and maintain the high reputation of the organisation. On behalf of his colleagues, both past and present, I offer our sincere thanks to Chris and wish him continued success in his next endeavours.”
Churchill’s credentials include being a Fellow of the Royal Academy of Engineering and the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET). His extensive experience includes serving on the Prime Minister’s Industrial, Manufacturing and Infrastructure Business Council and board positions with Make UK (The Manufacturers’ Organisation) and Midlands Group Training Services.
As a member of the Steering Board and fellow of the 5% Club, Churchill has consistently advocated for ‘earn and learn’ skills-training opportunities, aligning perfectly with the Foundation’s mission to nurture the next generation of engineering talent.
“With a new, longer-term national industrial strategy from Government, we have an important template for growth against which, together with our partners, we can help ensure the critical role that the electech and manufacturing sectors play in the UK economy is recognised,” said Churchill. “Alongside this, through targeted support, we will continue to engage with and nurture the next generation of UK engineers, and will play our part bridging the gap between engineering research and its commercialisation for the national good.”
His previous roles include sitting on the Ministerial Advisory Group on Manufacturing, participating in the All-Party Manufacturing Group, and serving as a Commissioner for the Manufacturing Commission. Churchill was also a board member of ADS (the trade association representing the UK’s aerospace, defence, space and security sectors) and continues to serve on their Council and External Affairs Board.
Churchill was appointed OBE in the King’s first Birthday Honours in 2023 for “Services to Engineering,” further underscoring his commitment to advancing British engineering excellence.
“Andrew’s appointment reflects our commitment to promoting British engineering and manufacturing excellence and supporting the next generation of UK engineers,” said ERA Foundation CEO Andrew Everett. “His expertise will enhance our ability to influence policy and drive innovation and growth in the high-tech manufacturing sector.
