An experienced manufacturing executive, Mr Mantle has played a vital role in developing the Rolls-Royce successes across the aerospace, defence, nuclear and power systems sectors.

He brings extensive global expertise in manufacturing, engineering, strategy, and execution, combined with a strong commitment to innovation, skills development and building supply chains.

Mr Mantle is the former chair of the advisory board for the University of Strathclyde’s Advanced Forming Research Centre (AFRC) – the NMIS founding centre, and leads Rolls-Royce’s strategic partnership with the university. He also sits on the advisory board of the skills charity Enginuity, is a member of the UK government’s Made Smarter Commission and has served on boards of capability centres in both the UK and Singapore. Before joining Rolls-Royce, he managed supply chain businesses in the aerospace and automotive sectors and remains passionate about supporting similar businesses to thrive.

Mr Mantle said: “I am honoured to join the NMIS board at such an important point in its journey. NMIS plays a vital role in helping industry respond to challenges such as sustainability, productivity, and skills. I look forward to working with colleagues to deliver meaningful outcomes for businesses and the wider economy.”

Professor Sir Jim McDonald GBE, chair of the NMIS board, said: “Neil brings an exceptional track record in manufacturing engineering and materials at the highest level.

“His knowledge and senior industrial experience will strengthen the NMIS board as we continue to deliver business and economic impact, supporting Scotland’s ambition to be recognised worldwide for advanced manufacturing.”

Chris Courtney, CEO, National Manufacturing Institute Scotland, said: “Rolls-Royce have been a key partner for NMIS, and Neil has worked closely with us over an extended period.

“He has been a passionate advocate for innovation, skills and building supply chains and will bring industrial insight and challenge to the NMIS executive team from one of the UK’s leading companies. I look forward to working with Neil in this new capacity.”

The National Manufacturing Institute Scotland (NMIS) is operated by the University of Strathclyde and is part of the UK’s High Value Manufacturing (HVM) Catapult. It helps manufacturers of all sizes to innovate and grow and connects business to leading academic capability and world class, industry-scale facilities. Through cutting-edge research, innovation and industrial collaboration, NMIS boosts productivity, develops skills, and creates high-value jobs while supporting the transition to a low-carbon, digitally enabled future.