NEW YORK – J.F. Lehman & Company, a leading middle-market private equity firm focused on the defense, aerospace and maritime sectors, is pleased to announce the addition of Allan Cook to its Operating Executive Board (“OEB”). The OEB is a group of seasoned industry and government executives who have significant experience in the firm’s target industries. Through key relationships and sector-specific knowledge, OEB members contribute to sourcing and evaluating transactions, advising on portfolio company strategy and recruiting senior level portfolio company management.
“Allan brings not only an exceptional reputation for integrity and business leadership to our firm, but also deep expertise in both the industries and geographies where we focus our investment efforts. We are delighted to welcome him aboard” stated John Lehman, Chairman of J.F. Lehman & Company.
Mr. Cook was chief executive of Cobham PLC, a premier U.K.-based global aerospace and defense firm, from November 2001 to December 2009. At Cobham Mr. Cook led the international growth of the company through approximately 50 acquisitions; many which focused on U.S. target companies. Prior to Cobham PLC, Mr. Cook held senior roles at GEC-Marconi, BAE Systems and Hughes Aircraft. He currently serves as Chairman of the Board of Directors of Atkins, the U.K.’s largest engineering and design consultancy. He is non-executive director of Marshall of Cambridge (Holdings) Limited, chairman of the Sector Skills Council for Science, Engineering and Manufacturing Technologies (SEMTA), past president of the Aerospace and Defence Industries Association of Europe (ASD) and past president of the Society of British Aerospace and Defence Companies (SBAC). He was awarded a CBE in the Queen's New Year's Honours list in 2008.