Andy Caldwell has been Head for Customer Engagement since April 2016 in MOD’s Defence Science and Technology directorate. In this role Andy is responsible for ensuring Defence & Security’s most important needs are being addressed by Science & Technology, working closely with the Front Line Commands. Through the Science Gateway network Head of Customer Engagement also provides embedded and independent expert advice on science and technology issues, supporting key decisions and activities across MOD.

Andy’s previous post was overseeing the implementation of the Science Capability Review, which transferred commissioning of science and technology from the Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (DSTL) to MOD Head Office. Prior to this Andy was DSTL’s Account Head, responsible for relations with all of DSTL’s customers.

Andy has a background in materials engineering and operational analysis. His career has included secondments to the Pentagon, Security Policy & Operations in MOD Head Office and as the Deputy Scientific Advisor to Task Force Helmand in 2011. In his early career Andy lead Force Structure and Stability Operations analysis, co-leading the analysis input into Strategic Defence and Security Review 2010 from DSTL. Andy is a Fellow of the Operations Research Society and has an MSc in Peace Operations from George Mason University’s School of Public Policy. He was awarded the Office of the Secretary of Defense medal for exceptional public service in 2010.

Andrew is married to Claire and they have two children, Ben (15) and Bethan (13) who play for Alton rugby and football clubs respectively. Andrew’s hobbies include playing board games, running and supporting Swansea City football club, spending most Saturdays listening to the radio hoping for another win against the odds to stave off relegation.