Rory Cleland

An innovative CEO with 20+ years of experience leading business growth, transformations, and turnarounds across manufacturing, engineering, construction, environmental, technology, and defence sectors. Rory has a proven track record of effective financial, commercial, and operational management, coupled with a strong ability to foster operational excellence and continuous improvement. A skilled coach and mentor, he has built, rebuilt, and developed staff in all functions into high-performance teams. A former Army officer, he possesses a relaxed yet effective leadership style, equally comfortable managing junior staff as he is engaging with directors and investors. He excels in stakeholder management, directing projects and initiatives, implementing new processes, and streamlining operations for optimal performance and profitability. An expert in developing new business and ensuring the delivery of products/services to the highest standard, while motivating multi-disciplinary units. Rory is adept at developing successful strategies and robust corporate governance structures to execute those plans, driving growth strategy and competitiveness. Rory holds Security Clearance and is currently CEO of a small Defence manufacturing business, demonstrating strong accountability and business strategy development.

Rory is a multi-disciplinary leader who thrives at the intersection of strategy, technology, and business growth—ideal for senior roles in dynamic, high-growth sectors.  He brings a uniquely diverse career spanning leadership, technical expertise, and commercial acumen, in particular::

• Military Leadership: Former Infantry Officer in the British Army, experienced in leading teams under pressure and making decisive judgments in complex environments.
• Technical Expertise: Worked as a Systems Engineer, applying analytical and problem-solving skills to deliver robust solutions.
• Legal Practice: Qualified (former practising) lawyer with experience in both litigation and commercial advisory, adept at navigating complex legal frameworks and providing strategic counsel.
• Commercial Advisory: Supported engineering consultancies on major infrastructure megaprojects, combining legal, technical, and commercial insight to drive successful outcomes.
• Entrepreneurship & Growth: Currently focused on start-ups and rapid-growth companies, leveraging cross-disciplinary experience to scale businesses, manage risk, and build resilient teams.

KEY STRENGTHS:

• Strong foundation in law, engineering, and commercial strategy.
• Track record of success in high-pressure environments and complex projects.
• Passion for innovation, growth, and building sustainable business models.

Rory is a lawyer by education, an army officer by training, a systems engineer by experience and a commercial director by expertise.  His broad and eclectic education, training and practice make him ideal for senior and leadership roles in small and large companies alike.