Han’s appointment follows the announced retirement of his predecessor, Wim van Beinum. In his new role, Han will be responsible for all of Atkins’ aerospace activity in mainland Europe, including the leadership of the Hoofddorp office in Amsterdam as well as driving business development activity.
Han was part of the team that set up Atkins’ multidisciplinary, 1000 engineer strong global design centre in Bangalore. From 2012 he led Atkins’ aerospace team as they worked on a wide range of projects including delivering certification for Airbus programmes.
Neil Kirk, managing director of Atkins’ aerospace business, said: “I’d like to welcome Han into his new role. Having been integral in establishing Atkins’ global design centre and successfully managing the Bangalore aerospace team over the last two years, Han has proven leadership skills as well as invaluable experience of how Atkins can best integrate offshore engineering into the work it delivers for its clients.
“Han’s priorities will be to retain and expand upon our position in mainland Europe, to maintain Atkins’ reputation for delivering technical excellence in the aerospace sector and to develop strong partnerships with existing and prospective clients.”
As well as serving as aerospace director for mainland Europe, Han will also continue to have a close involvement with the Bangalore office, with Ajit Dongarkar taking on responsibility for day-to-day management in Bangalore. Han will primarily be based in Hoofddorp and will be working alongside Wim van Beinum until he leaves at the end of October 2014.
Neil continued: “I’d also like to take this opportunity to say a huge thank you to Wim, and to congratulate him on everything he has achieved over his 34 years in the industry. Wim has provided excellent leadership for our mainland Europe operations, ensuring our team delivers innovative solutions and real value for our clients, and we wish him all the best in his retirement.”
Picture caption (from left to right): Neil Kirk welcomes Han van der Vleuten to his new role.
