MASS appoints Keith Norton as Managing Director
Published 6th January 2025
MASS Consultants Ltd, a specialist data technology company serving the defence and security markets, and a member of the Cohort plc Group of companies, has today announced the appointment of Keith Norton as Managing Director.
In his new role, Keith will accelerate the businesses’ ambitious growth strategy and drive innovation opportunities for the benefit of defence, government and businesses in the UK and globally.
Keith brings over 35 years of experience in the defence industry to the company, having worked at strategic, programme, technical and operational levels to successfully deliver significant business growth across government, commercial telecommunications, IT and defence businesses. Beginning his career as an electronics and engineering student apprentice, Keith has developed a deep understanding and appreciation of the intersection between the commercial, defence and government sectors which has led him to specialise in business strategy, defence and government communications, as well as programme delivery.
In his previous role, as Vice President and Managing Director of L3Harris Communications Systems Ltd, Keith oversaw 150 UK staff, drove 400% growth in annual sales and held strategic business responsibility. During his tenure, he integrated two defence businesses post-acquisition, relocated the business to a bespoke new 80,000 square foot flagship facility to foster a one-team collaborative approach, secured UK MoD sustainment contracts and led tactical communications systems sales growth across Europe.
Commenting on his appointment, Keith said: “MASS is a business that has really led the way in data technology, services and training, and I’m excited to be joining the company at such a key moment for the defence industry.”
“With advancement in technology and connectivity there is an expectation from defence customers for faster situational awareness at all levels. Added to this is the increasing abundance of data that is available to operators which drives the need to distil data down to information and reduce the time from detecting a threat to taking action.”
“The business is already exploring the benefits of cognitive computing and artificial intelligence (AI) within the defence sector, and I will draw on my experience to drive collaboration and innovation to accelerate this and other opportunities in the market. There is an immense opportunity for growth in the communications and intelligence sector and our people will be the most integral factor in our success.”
MASS provides electronic warfare operational support, cyber and data services, IT service management, software development and training support to military operations, serving customers primarily in defence and security markets. The business is part of the Cohort Group – a parent company of seven innovative, agile and responsive businesses provide defence technology, products and services.
Keith was appointed to the role by Andrew Thomis, CEO of Cohort plc, who comments: “MASS has an outstanding reputation in the industry for helping defence customers turn their data into operational advantage. This combined with Keith’s impressive track record in building high performing teams, identifying market opportunities and delivering strategic growth will see the start of an exciting new chapter for MASS.”
Keith’s appointment follows the retirement of former managing director Chris Stanley. He officially joined the business on the 2nd of January and will work alongside Chris to ensure a smooth transition when he takes on the role of Managing Director on 1st February 2025.
For more information on MASS visit mass.co.uk for more information on the Cohort Group visit www.cohortplc.com
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