Ibadan, 16 August 2023. – Orbex, the UK-based spaceflight company, has announced the appointment of Lesley Still as its new Chief of Spaceport Operations. This key appointment comes as Orbex advances its preparations for the UK mainland’s inaugural vertical rocket launch.
Lesley, a Fellow of the Royal Aeronautical Society, brings four decades of aerospace industry experience to her new role. She has also held strategic leadership positions throughout her career, specializing in the planning and delivery of effective ground and logistics operations to support commercial aerospace organizations.
In the new role of Chief of Spaceport Operations, Lesley will oversee the operational management of Sutherland Spaceport (formerly Space Hub Sutherland), ensuring its readiness for the first launch of Orbex Prime. This includes managing the Spaceport Licence application and interacting with the various stakeholders involved.
Furthermore, She will work closely with the local community and stakeholders to ensure that the facility plays an important role in the area. When the spaceport construction ends, she will also oversee the spaceport operations, including critical areas such as health & safety.
“The next few months are critical for Orbex as we are building both a rocket and a spaceport at the same time,” said Martin Coates, CEO at Orbex. “Lesley’s extensive aerospace sector experience will be invaluable as we fine-tune our operations and prepare for our first launch. We look forward to her leadership and guidance as we continue our preparations.”
“This is the perfect time to join Orbex,” said Lesley Still. “The progress the team has already made in recent months is impressive, and I’m eager to play my part in the UK mainland’s first vertical rocket launch.”
