We are delighted to be working in partnership with ESCO Maritime Solutions on an exclusive retained assignment for a key role within their defence engineering team.

ESCO Maritime Solutions is the trusted partner of choice for naval signature management systems, advanced power control and conversion technologies, and specialist components for aerospace and defence platforms. Their reputation as a global leader in mission-critical solutions has been built on innovation, engineering excellence, and decades of trusted collaboration with the UK Royal Navy, US Navy, and allied navies worldwide.

As part of this assignment, the search is being led by our Head of Commercial and Client Relations, David Mills, who brings extensive experience in defence and engineering recruitment. With a proven track record of delivering senior-level and specialist appointments across highly regulated industries, David ensures that the process is thorough, discreet, and tailored to attract the very best talent for this prestigious role.

About ESCO Maritime Solutions

• Renowned provider of high-integrity, mission-critical power solutions

• Global leader in magnetic signature management systems and services

• Proven technologies installed across UK Royal Navy, US Navy, and allied fleets

• Expertise spanning the full project lifecycle: design, development, and ship construction

• Delivering tactical and operational advantage to international defence programmes

The Opportunity

About the Role

The Senior Director of Technology will shape and deliver Esco’s long-term technology strategy, driving sustainable growth in the UK and US defence markets and expanding aftermarket success globally. The successful candidate will transform the business from an “engineer-to-order” to a “configure-to-order” model, leveraging innovation and a “reduce, reuse, recycle” approach to create flexible, efficient, and environmentally responsible solutions.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the development and implementation of a forward-looking technology strategy aligned to business goals.

• Identify and commercialise emerging technologies to create new products and market opportunities.

• Oversee and prioritise IRAD programmes across UK and US sites, ensuring delivery on time, within scope, and to technical excellence.

• Build strong industry partnerships with suppliers, customers, and academic collaborators.

• Develop compelling business cases and present to senior leadership to secure funding and strategic alignment.

• Drive innovation culture, team growth, and continuous improvement across all technical functions.

• Protect and manage the company’s intellectual property portfolio, ensuring ongoing competitive advantage.

Candidate Profile

We are seeking an accomplished technology leader with a proven track record in defence, engineering, or advanced manufacturing.

Essential Qualifications and Experience:

• Advanced degree in Engineering, Physics, or related discipline.

• Deep technical knowledge of power systems, sensors, and signature management.

• Demonstrated success in technology development and commercialisation.

• Experience leading IRAD or R&D programmes across complex engineering environments.

• Strong strategic thinking, financial acumen, and business leadership skills.

• Excellent communication, team development, and stakeholder engagement capabilities.

This is a rare and exclusive retained search opportunity for an accomplished professional to make a significant impact within a world-class defence engineering organisation.

If you believe you have the expertise and leadership qualities to succeed in this role, please get in touch directly for a confidential discussion:

📞 Call: 07304 033477 
📧 Email: Davidmills@coretalent.co.uk