Meet the Team
Andrew Russell
Managing Director
With over two decades of leadership in strategy advocacy and business growth, Andrew Russell specializes in driving aggressive, transformation and change agenda. In the Past decade, he has held senior roles with full accountability for Business Units, managing extensive P&L responsibilities. His leadership style emphasizes openness and empowerment, achieving success through cohesive team efforts.
Excelling in contract negotiation, business turnaround, revenue generation, and service excellence, leveraging robust commercial acumen to implement optimal growth strategies. Andy is a seasoned problem solver; he is adept at transformation and continuous improvement initiatives. His expertise spans Nuclear, Defence Aerospace, Civil Aerospace, and Commercial markets, deeply understanding operational models and customer needs essential for driving business forward.
Govind Ponnappan
Head of Business Development & Customer Contracts – US, EU & Morocco
Govind is the Head of Business Development, Bids & Contracts for the US and EU regions. He has been a part of the SASMOS family since 2010 and has led various functions such as Production Planning, Supply Chain, and Program Management across regions. He is one of the youngest members to be selected for the SASMOS Leadership Accelerated & Mentorship Program.
Currently, based in the UK, supporting growth strategy of Westwire Harnessing Limited in addition to his current role at SASMOS group.
Glenn Whyte
Quality Manager and EHS Manager
Glenn leads a dedicated team of Quality Engineers and Inspectors responsible for the inspection and electrical testing of ruggedized harnesses ensuring to meet stringent customer specifications and delivery timelines. He drives the company’s Quality Management System (QMS), compliance requirements across all departments and acting as the primary contact for AS9100, ISO 9001 and regulatory audits.
Since his joining in 2017, Glenn has applied his deep expertise in internal audits, quality systems, and data analysis to improve quality performance and support on-time delivery within the aerospace and defence sectors. He also oversees IT and cybersecurity compliance for the business.
Glenn previously spent 17 years at TE Connectivity in various roles across R&D, Technical, and Quality functions.
Gary Cotton
Operations Director
With over 35 years of experience in Manufacturing Operations, Engineering, and Quality he has worked across the Automotive, Pharmaceutical, and Electrical Interconnection sectors, bringing a wealth of industry knowledge.
A certified Lean Six Sigma Black Belt, Gary has led numerous global transformation initiatives, achieving significant efficiency and performance gains. His deep commitment is complemented by his qualifications as an ISO 9000 Lead Auditor, with a strong focus on quality systems and compliance.
Gary is known for his strategic leadership and hands-on approach to driving operational excellence.