New Chief Financial Officer Appointed by National Armaments Director

Ian brings over four decades of financial leadership experience across professional services, global pharmaceuticals, and luxury retail to the NAD Group. As the new Chief Financial Officer (CFO), he will join the NAD Group Executive Committee, playing an essential role in the execution of the Defence Investment Plan (DIP) and adapting to Defence’s evolving capability priorities. Under his guidance, the finance team will support the initiatives aimed at developing, delivering, sustaining, housing, and maintaining the UK’s ‘national arsenal’ and defence estate.

With a proven track record of devising effective financial strategies and enhancing performance in both FTSE 100 and private international firms, Ian is well-equipped to tackle financial challenges faced by major corporations. His extensive experience has enabled him to significantly contribute to the financial health of FTSE 100 companies.

Sharing His Vision for the Future

Upon his appointment, Ian Brimicombe expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “I’m delighted to be joining the National Armaments Director Group as Chief Financial Officer. Having spent my career in the private sector, I’m excited by the opportunity to bring that experience to the Ministry of Defence at such an important time for the organisation, for defence, and for the UK. I look forward to working with the team to build on its foundations and support its future growth and success.”

Ian graduated from King’s College London and subsequently completed his accountancy and tax qualifications with Coopers and Lybrand, now known as PWC. After establishing a robust technical grounding in audit, tax, and corporate finance, he transitioned into the pharmaceutical sector by joining what eventually became AstraZeneca. Over the course of more than 20 years, he held increasingly senior leadership roles within the company.

Expertise in Transformation and Resilience

Following his tenure in pharmaceuticals, Ian joined the British luxury fashion brand, Burberry, where he spent nearly seven years facilitating finance and business transformation. His experience includes steering the organisation through the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic and leading key refinancing efforts. Most recently, he served as CFO at Abercrombie & Kent Group.

Rupert Pearce, the National Armaments Director, remarked, “I am delighted to welcome Ian to the NAD Group. He brings with him a wealth of experience from the high-tech world of pharmaceuticals and the fast-paced retail arena. As UK Defence continues its transformation, and we look to drive greater efficiency into our systems, these are skills we really value.”

A Legacy of Excellence

David Johnson, who is set to retire this autumn, leaves behind an impressive legacy as the first Group Finance Director of the NAD Group. With 37 years dedicated to the Ministry of Defence, his professionalism, diligence, and keen attention to detail have significantly contributed to the security of both the armed forces and the nation. The organisation wishes him all the best in his retirement.

Ian is set to officially join the NAD Group on 7 September 2026, succeeding David Johnson, who will retire at the end of November.