Established in 1993, AIS is a global materials technology company headquartered in the UK, specialising in fire and thermal protection of assets across a broad energy and industrial client base, together with a large underwater cable protection offering for the non-renewable and renewable energy sectors in addition to a rapidly growing battery testing and battery protection materials business.
Through organic and inorganic growth means, AIS has rapidly scaled its global footprint, now employing 750 people worldwide and generating EBITDA of £20m for FY24. The Company supports global energy transition across critical industries with a unique range of patented, innovative material science solutions.
Sir Ben is a distinguished British politician, a former Security Minister and one of Britain’s and NATO’s longest serving Defence secretaries, in office from 2019-2023. He brings a wealth of experience in defence development, policy, strategy, and security.
Leveraging his extensive understanding of innovation in defence and national security, with strong government and commercial relationships, Sir Ben will be part of AIS’ Board helping to guide its direction and accelerating growth.
Commenting on his appointment, Sir Ben Wallace said:
“I am pleased to take up this role with AIS and look forward to supporting the company on its continued growth journey. AIS is a great UK success story, supporting a global energy transition by leveraging its market leading solutions to provide its global client base with mission-critical protection for vital strategic industries. The products manufactured by AIS play an important role in delivering energy security and transition, both of which deliver positive socioeconomic impact. AIS has great plans for the future. I am delighted to be joining this ambitious team and I look forward to contributing towards AIS’ long-term growth objectives.”
Russell Ward, Chairman of AIS added:
“We are pleased to welcome Sir Ben Wallace to the Board and we believe the calibre of this appointment reflects AIS’ growth ambitions and status as a market leader in our chosen field. The company is uniquely well positioned to capitalise on opportunities presented by the global energy transition and we see further diversification opportunities into applicable markets such as Defence. Sir Ben’s understanding of the defence sector and the geopolitical landscape, together with his proven leadership as one of NATO’s longest serving defence ministers, will be invaluable as the business expands into new markets with global reach, along with the strategic input and insight which Sir Ben naturally brings. “
