NEWS

Senior Appointment Strengthens RTC North's Defence Ambitions

05th Oct 2026

Based in the North West, Kelvine joins RTC North at a time of significant growth for the organisation's defence and security activities, following a number of recent contract awards and the continued expansion of support for businesses seeking opportunities within high-value supply chains

Kelvine brings four decades of experience across government, defence, security, air and maritime industries. His career includes 21 years working in Customs, 15 years with BAE Systems and three years at Cammell Laird in Merseyside, holding a range of senior roles spanning procurement, commercial management, programme delivery and business operations.

Through his extensive industry experience, Kelvine has developed strong relationships with major defence primes, large enterprises and supply chain organisations. His appointment will support RTC’s work to drive Innovation & Scaling, Manufacturing & Productivity, and Skills & STEM across the North of England, helping businesses strengthen capability, increase competitiveness and secure opportunities within the UK's rapidly evolving defence and security sectors. Commenting on his new role, Kelvine  said:

"What attracted me most to RTC was its culture and purpose. As an employee-owned business and certified B Corp, there's a genuine commitment to creating positive impact for both businesses and the communities they serve. That aligns strongly with my own values and made the opportunity particularly appealing. I'm excited to be joining the team and look forward to working with colleagues, partners and businesses across the North to help organisations access new opportunities, strengthen supply chains and support the continued growth of the defence and security sector.”

Kelvine's appointment reflects RTC’s continued investment in strategic growth sectors and its commitment to supporting the development of resilient supply chains, innovation-led businesses and regional economic growth across the North of England.

Commenting on the appointment, Alan Whittaker, Head of Sector Growth at RTC, said:

"We are delighted to welcome Kelvine at a pivotal time for both our organisation and the wider defence and security sector. Kelvine brings exceptional industry knowledge, credibility and connections built across decades of experience in government, air, maritime, defence and security.

“His appointment strengthens our ability to support businesses seeking to enter and grow within high-value defence and security supply chains, while helping them develop the capabilities needed to secure future opportunities. As RTC continues to expand its activity across the North of England, Kelvine's expertise will play a key role in connecting businesses with major programmes, fostering innovation and driving sustainable economic growth."

RTC North is a Certified B Corporation and employee‑owned organisation, reflecting its long‑standing commitment to using business as a force for good. This people‑first model ensures the organisation is governed in line with its purpose, values, and regional mission, with ownership held on behalf of its employees and a strong focus on long‑term impact.

Working with a wide range of partners including local authorities, universities, and the private sector, RTC offers expert advice in areas such as business growth, digital transformation, commercialisation, skills development, and internationalisation. RTC is committed to fostering enterprise, driving innovation, and empowering businesses to achieve sustainable and inclusive success across the North of England.

RTC North is a Certified B Corporation and employee‑owned organisation, reflecting its long‑standing commitment to using business as a force for good. This people‑first model ensures the organisation is governed in line with its purpose, values, and regional mission, with ownership held on behalf of its employees and a strong focus on long‑term impact.

Working with a wide range of partners including local authorities, universities, and the private sector, RTC offers expert advice in areas such as business growth, digital transformation, commercialisation, skills development, and internationalisation. RTC is committed to fostering enterprise, driving innovation, and empowering businesses to achieve sustainable and inclusive success across the North of England.

RTC North is a Certified B Corporation and employee‑owned organisation, reflecting its long‑standing commitment to using business as a force for good. This people‑first model ensures the organisation is governed in line with its purpose, values, and regional mission, with ownership held on behalf of its employees and a strong focus on long‑term impact.

Working with a wide range of partners including local authorities, universities, and the private sector, RTC offers expert advice in areas such as business growth, digital transformation, commercialisation, skills development, and internationalisation. RTC is committed to fostering enterprise, driving innovation, and empowering businesses to achieve sustainable and inclusive success across the North of England.

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