THE TEAM
ANALYSTS, CONSULTANTS AND AN EXTENDED TEAM OF ASSOCIATES CONSULTING PARTNERS (ACP) TO SERVE YOU ON:
Technology advisory, investment and diversification strategy
M&A Technical advisory pre and post-deal in high value manufacturing markets
Organic and non-organic growth strategies
Advisory on sustainable practices and environmental responsibility
Advanced Data Analytics to drive informed business decisions
DR. MARCELLO GRASSI
MD & FOUNDER
Dr. Marcello Grassi is the founder and the Managing Director of Leading Edge Strategy (LES) Consulting Ltd, a growth strategy and advisory consulting firm built on the in-depth knowledge of the composites and high-value manufacturing markets such as aerospace, defence, and automotive.
He has delivered complex strategic assignments for leading blue-chip multi-billion-dollar enterprises, Governments, and investment banking firms, focusing on technology, manufacturing, engineering strategies, supply chain partnerships, and product development initiatives, as well as organic and non-organic business growth strategies. He has also conducted M&A assignments for Tier 1 and Tier 2 aerospace and automotive companies in the United Kingdom, Europe, and North America.
After achieving a SUMMA CUM LAUDE Aerospace Engineering Master's degree in Italy, he was awarded a PhD in Composites Materials at Cranfield University College of Aeronautics in the UK. Before setting up his own management consulting and advisory firm, he spent 20 years in the composites industry, covering aerospace, defense, and automotive global roles with Finmeccanica, QinetiQ, Spirit AeroSystems, and McLaren Automotive.
SARA NUNZIATA
OPERATION & MARKETING DIRECTOR
Sara Nunziata has a significant international experience of managing large and complex projects in Sales Operation and Marketing Communication Strategy. With over 18 years in IT industry experience such as Sony Europe, Convergent, CSC, and DXC, she covered different roles from finance to purchasing to marketing communication with responsibilities in the field of Sales Enablement Strategy and Business Development in the UK and Europe. In 2017, Sara joined Leading Edge Strategy Consulting (LES), bringing a variety of skills from leadership and management to organisational and team building skills. She started her role in LES creating a strong brand presence in the global marketplace.
Graduated with a Master Degree in Foreign Languages and Literature in Italy (Hons), Sara studied Marketing in the UK with a particular focus on Marketing Communication and Branding.
Prof. Simon Weeks
Associate Consulting Partner (ACP)
Simon has 40 years of experience in technology across the aerospace and green energy sectors. As an Associate Consulting Partner at Leading Edge Strategy Consulting, Simon brings aerospace knowledge and experience to the clients, helping them navigate complex technological challenges and achieve their strategic goals. He is a member of the UK Government's Innovate UK Council and the Department for Transport College of Experts. He is also a Non-Executive Director of the Offshore Wind Growth Partnership.
Previously, he was the Chief Technology Officer for the Aerospace Technology Institute (ATI), accountable for the technical direction of the UK’s national aerospace technology strategy and a £5 billion+ programme. Before that, Simon held senior engineering and technology roles with Rolls-Royce, including Global Head of Aerospace Research & Technology, Director of Engineering Operations for Aero Engine Controls, and Technical Director for Eurojet, where he led the development of the EJ200 engine for the Eurofighter Typhoon.
Simon is a Visiting Professor in Engineering Science at Oxford University and in Sustainability Technology at Loughborough University. He is a chartered engineer and a Fellow of the Royal Aeronautical Society and the Cambridge Institute for Sustainability Leadership. Simon has an MA in Chemistry and a DPhil in the electrochemistry of fuel cells, both from the University of Oxford.
Paul Mackenzie
Associate Consulting Partner (ACP)
Paul has over 30 years of industrial experience working in the engineering design, development, and manufacturing environment. Over this period, he has worked within the aerospace, automotive, and marine sectors.
Graduating with a BEng Hons in Composites Engineering, Paul worked his way up the technical ladder before moving into programme management and latterly into operational roles. He has held the positions of Product Development Director, CTO, and COO and was on the Executive board of both McLaren Automotive and Princess Yachts.
During his time at McLaren Automotive, Paul was responsible for the development of the McLaren Mercedes Carbon Fibre chassis and body system and was the Programme Director for the McLaren P1. During his time at Princess Yachts, he led the team who designed, developed, and launched 10 new motor yacht models ranging from 45’ to 95’.
Paul is currently an Associate Consulting Partner at Leading Edge Strategy, contributing his extensive experience in engineering design and programme management. He provides strategic insights and operational expertise, supporting clients in optimising their product development processes, driving innovation, and improving overall operational efficiency within the aerospace, automotive, and marine industries.
Roger Bourne OBE
Associate Consulting Partner (ACP)
Roger has 47 years of experience working for the UK Government, spanning defence and national security, and industrial policy. As Head/Deputy Head of Aerospace in the Business Department, he played a seminal role in the creation of the Aerospace Growth Partnership between the Government and the UK Aerospace Industry and the creation of the Aerospace Technology Institute. He secured record levels of public funding for aerospace research and technology over the long term, giving businesses increased confidence to invest. He was instrumental in encouraging leading companies such as Airbus, Boeing, Bombardier, Collins, GE, GKN, Hexcel, Leonardo, Meggitt, Rolls-Royce, and Spirit AeroSystems to develop and grow their businesses in the UK through increased investment. He was awarded an OBE in the 2018 Birthday Honours List in recognition of his significant contribution to the UK Aerospace Industry. As Associate Consulting Partner at Leading Edge Strategy, Roger is contributing to government investments and strategic initiatives for advancing the aerospace sector.
Dr. Roger Digby
Associate Consulting Partner (ACP)
Roger has an extensive background in the development and application of advanced materials for military and commercial applications, as well as in the development and implementation of effective technical and commercial strategies across a range of sectors. After leading multinational research programmes at the UK Defence Evaluation Research Agency (DERA), Roger moved into the commercial sector as Chief Materials Engineer & Head of Laboratories at GKN Aerospace, and then as Head of Materials & Processes UK at Airbus. From there, he moved to Airbus headquarters in Toulouse as Head of Materials & Process Integration for Aircraft Programmes, with responsibility for the delivery of all materials and process solutions for the airframe and systems installation across the entire Airbus commercial aircraft product range.
After almost 10 years at Airbus, Roger was appointed Group Technical Director and member of the Executive Committee at Exova Group, one of the world’s leading laboratory-based testing organisations supporting 11 key sectors including aerospace, oil & gas, civil engineering, health sciences, environment, consumer products, and fire safety. In this role, Roger was responsible for defining, developing, and leading Exova’s technical, engineering, and scientific strategy and capabilities across a business spanning 32 countries with 134 laboratories and more than 4,300 staff. In addition to his technical responsibilities, Roger also led the Quality and HSE functions across the business.
Roger has worked on more than 30 M&A projects on both the buy side and sell side, providing technical expertise, quality systems understanding, and experience in delivering operational excellence.
Roger holds a PhD in Materials Science & Engineering, a Postgraduate Diploma in Business Administration, and is a Fellow of the Royal Academy of Engineering, a Chartered Engineer, and a Fellow of the Institute of Materials, Minerals & Mining.
As an Associate Consulting Partner at Leading Edge Strategy Consulting, Roger can bring a wealth of experience on aerospace projects from the development and implementation of effective technical and commercial strategies for advanced materials to M&A advisory in military and commercial programmes.
Nick Tiffin
Associate Consulting Partner (ACP)
Nick has over 40 years of experience in the composites industry, with extensive knowledge of thermoplastic and thermoset materials. He has been instrumental in developing growth and product development within the EMEA region. Previously, he held an active seat on the NCC Steering & Research Committee, driving innovation and change in the UK composites landscape. Nick has extensive market knowledge within the commercial and military aerospace, space & satellite, and communications markets, as well as high-end automotive applications such as Formula 1 and various industrial applications.
He is a qualified Mechanical and Production Engineer and has been a member of SAMPE for 38 years.
Nick is currently an Associate Consulting Partner at Leading Edge Strategy, bringing his deep expertise in composites to assist clients with strategic growth advisory, product and materials development strategies, market penetration, and expansion initiatives.
DR ALEX COCHRANE
CLEAN MOBILITY & FUTURE TECHNOLOGY CONSULTANT
Dr Alex Cochrane is a Clean Mobility and Future Technology consultant with 9 years’ experience working in both research & development and consultancy for engineering companies. He holds a first-class Master of Engineering (MEng) degree in Aeronautical Engineering from the University of Glasgow, and a Doctor of Engineering (EngD) degree in advanced composites from the University of Bristol.
Following a period working in research into advanced aerospace metals for the University of Strathclyde’s Advanced Forming Research Centre (AFRC), Alex pursued his doctorate in advanced composite materials for aerospace with the University of Bristol. Sponsored by Rolls-Royce plc, his project was in the development of a test method for investigating the ability of Z-pin through-thickness reinforcement in suppressing crack propagation in high-speed impact conditions.
Alex then worked at the University of Strathclyde’s Lightweight Manufacturing Centre (LMC), where his role involved facilitating link-up between academic and industrial composites R&D, enhancing composites technology TRL maturity, and managing the delivery of industrial R&D projects for both small and blue-chip engineering clients. Following this, Alex spent some time working in R&D tax consultancy to gain experience as a client-facing consultant in a demanding environment before joining LES in 2024.
Alex has a passion for technical work – he believes you should never stop learning – but also in working with clients each day. Following his doctoral research, he has developed a lifelong fascination with material or structural failure, i.e., breaking things.
LUKE PATON
CLEAN MOBILITY AND FUTURE TECHNOLOGY CONSULTANT
Luke Paton works across the Aerospace and Automotive sectors in the role of Clean Mobility and Future Technology Consultant; he holds 10 years’ experience in the aerospace sector working mainly within a research and development environment. His career started when he commenced a 4-year craft apprenticeship at Spirit AeroSystems, gaining hands-on experience across various commercial wing assemblies. From the production environment, Luke moved into Spirit’s R&D facility where he performed as an R&D engineer and was responsible for the investigation and delivery of various projects covering composite and metallic technologies. Luke has experience in working with suppliers and customers in various product development activities across the globe.
Luke holds a First-Class BEng (Hons) degree in Design & Manufacture Engineering from the University of Strathclyde, which he completed alongside his work at Spirit AeroSystems.
As a highly motivated problem-solver, he supports clients on R&D activities, in gaining strategic insights into technology advances, and in M&A company screening. Luke is also involved in the identification of external activities that hold the potential to expand engagement opportunities within academia and beyond.
Andy Fairweather
MARKETING CONSULTANT
Andy Fairweather is a marketing professional with nearly two decades of experience specialising in both digital and strategic marketing. His expertise has significantly enhanced promotional strategies, marketing collateral development, and brand awareness.
Andy’s academic background includes an MSc in Entrepreneurship from the University of Bristol’s Engineering Department, with a focus on marketing information systems. This education, coupled with his practical experience, equips him to provide valuable digital operational support, aiding sustainable startups in establishing and expanding their market presence. As LES continues to lead in innovation, Andy’s contributions are vital in shaping robust marketing frameworks that align with the consultancy’s core values and objectives.
DANIELLA JACKSON
HEAD OF PEOPLE & CULTURE
Daniella is a highly experienced consultant who has worked in HR at a senior level in both private and public sectors including a leading international law firm, NHS and education. Most recently she was Head of People and Culture for a leading communications consultancy, and we are excited to work with her to enhance the working environment and culture at LES. Daniella is extremely personable and focuses on supporting the growth and ongoing success of our colleagues and organisation.
Daniella graduated with a 2:1 in Sociology from The University of Manchester. She began her career in Human Resources in 1999 and in 2004 she completed her PGDip in Human Resource Management.
ALLY BEATTIE
SENIOR CLEAN MOBILITY AND FUTURE TECHNOLOGY ANALYST
Ally Beattie works across our Aerospace and Automotive sectors in the role of Senior Clean Mobility and Future Technology Analyst. As a creative solutionist, Ally is responsible for supporting our client engagements and providing strategic insight and market analysis on technologies, R&D collaborations, and M&A company screening. He is involved in the organisation of client and industry expert engagement at LES, bringing experience in interactive data collection and analysis techniques to support strategic direction planning for a portfolio of clients. Alongside core competencies, Ally is knowledgeable in global sustainable development activities, with focus on the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Ally holds a First Class MEng in Product Design Engineering from the University of Strathclyde and is comfortable in a research environment, with a keen interest in global technology developments and a passion for sustainable technologies.
JACK KEAN
Senior CLEAN MOBILITY AND FUTURE TECHNOLOGY ANALYST
Jack Kean works in our Aerospace sector in the role of Clean Mobility & Future Technology Analyst. Jack recently joined the team after completing a 4-month internship over the summer 2022. As an analyst with LES Consulting (Leading Edge Strategy), Jack supports the creation and maintenance of our supply chain and technology databases aiding projects in business development and M&A company screening.
Jack holds a First-Class Honours degree in Aircraft engineering from the University of the West of Scotland. Alongside his work Jack is studying towards his MEng degree in Aircraft Engineering with a keen interest in global technology developments and sustainable technologies.
AZAD AYINMEHR
CLEAN MOBILITY AND FUTURE TECHNOLOGY ANALYST
Azad Ayinmehr works across the Aerospace sector in the role of Clean Mobility & Future Technology Analyst. After completing his internship over the summer 2023, he joined the team to work as an analyst with the LES Consulting (Leading Edge Strategy) supporting the creation and maintenance of our supply chain and technology databases.
Azad holds a first-class bachelor’s degree with a distinction in Aircraft engineering from the University of the West of Scotland UWS. Alongside his work, Azad is studying towards his Honors degree in Aircraft Engineering with a keen interest in sustainable technologies in aerospace as well as global technology developments. Azad supports the creation and maintenance of the LES supply chain and technology databases aiding projects in business development and M & A company screening.
Dayna Swan
CLEAN MOBILITY AND FUTURE TECHNOLOGY ANALYST
Dayna Swan predominantly works in our Aerospace sector in the role of Clean Mobility and Future Technology Analyst. Dayna joined the team after completing her university studies and is eager to implement the theoretical knowledge she learned to real life applications. Dayna applies her skills in problem solving and analytical thinking to support our clients across a variety of areas such as market analysis, M&A company screening etc. One of Dayna’s key roles covers the creation and maintenance of LES databases that aid our clients across a variety of needs.
Dayna obtained a First-Class BEng (Hons) degree in Chemical Engineering from the University of the West of Scotland. She takes particular interest in the topics of materials engineering and sustainable technologies, with a focus on how these areas will shape the industry of tomorrow.
Want to join our team?
Please contact us to find out if we have any current vacancies you can apply for.