Former Airbus chief Tom Enders becomes Chairman of the KNDS Board of Directors

Tom Enders takes over as Chairman of the Board of Directors of KNDS with effect from 3 November. The company made the announcement.

From 2005 to 2019, Enders, a renowned European business leader and aerospace expert, headed EADS and Airbus as Chief Executive Officer. During his tenure, Airbus rose to become the world market leader in civil aviation, expanded its own position in the defence and space business and increased the company's value many times over.

Before moving into industry, he worked in politics and research – including at the Ministry of Defence in Germany and at the International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS) in London. Since leaving Airbus, he has been active on various international business and advisory bodies.

KNDS leadership and Enders on the move

KNDS CEO Jean-Paul Alary welcomed the appointment:

I am delighted that Tom Enders is joining KNDS as Chairman of the Board of Directors.— Jean-Paul Alary, CEO of KNDS

Alary added:

At a time when KNDS is opening a new chapter as a leading European system integrator and global provider in land defence, he will bring valuable experience and a clear strategic vision.— Jean-Paul Alary

Enders himself spoke of an honour:

It is an honour for me to join KNDS at such a decisive moment. Europe is currently strengthening its defence capabilities – and KNDS is excellently positioned to take a leading role in this. I look forward to working with the Executive Board and the management team to further develop a strong, innovative and competitive European defence company.— Tom Enders