Who We Are
Strong commitment to innovation
Rotron is a renowned pioneer in rotary engine technology. We are a leader in rotary engine design, manufacture and delivering propulsion systems, services and solutions across recreational, commercial and government applications.
At our heart, a dedicated diverse workforce comprising of young innovative thinkers and the most experienced talents in the industry. Each one energised by a common determination to push their boundless imaginations to design, develop and manufacture cutting-edge rotary engine technologies and establish the next step in extreme propulsion systems to meet our customer’s vital power needs.
Tested beyond extremes to defy convention
In 2007, Gilo Cardozo and TV adventurer Bear Grylls turned convention on its head in the pursuit of the ultimate test; to fly above Everest, a feat many deemed impossible. The dream grew to become a worthy adversary of all Gilo had learnt as an engineer. The answer, to design a revolutionary rotary engine that was more compact, lighter, and almost twice the power for its capacity.
On 14 May, the intrepid pair foot-launched from the Himalayan foothills carrying a total weight of around 120kg, and flew north towards Everest before ascending towards target altitude. Around 9.30 am, Bear reached the height of 29,500ft and looked down on the summit of Everest.
Building on this success and achievement, Gilo continued to develop the ground-breaking rotary engine and looked for a commercial platform for the technology.
Rotron Power was born.
Rotron Management Team
Gilo Cardozo
FOUNDER / CTO
Gilo Cardozo, founder and CTO of Rotron Aerospace Ltd and Gilo Group Ltd, was awarded an MBE by the Queen for services to engineering and business in 2011 and is considered one of the UK’s foremost aviation pioneers. Gilo’s passion for aviation has been his driving force, and combined with an engineering mindset has help define the many exciting projects that can truly be classed as disruptive technologies that will change the face of aviation for years to come.
Alex Head
CEO
CEO of Rotron Aerospace Ltd Alex enjoys the challenge of engineering and business management. From commercial strategy to generating and growing revenue streams with new products, Alex has the experience to deliver. Alex’s specific area of expertise lies within engineering, manufacturing, and business management. He knows first-hand how to build and deliver complex products and programs.
Sir George Zambellas
CHAIRMAN
Sir George Zambellas was First Sea Lord between 2013 and 2016, after a 36 year career as a pilot, sea commander, fleet commander and NATO commander. As professional head of the Navy he was responsible for delivering existing and new carriers, submarines and frigates. He also shaped the Navy’s ambition in autonomous sea and air systems. He is now Chairman of Rotron in the US and U.K., as well as holding executive roles in other data and tech related businesses.
Harveen Rai
INTERIM CFO
Experienced CFO with over 20 years’ experience in listed and private, manufacturing and operational companies. Expertise in business development and transformational activities and fund raising.
Colonel Kev Oliver
ADVISOR / BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT
Kev Oliver was a Royal Marine for 33 years. He has wide operational experience and his final role was establishing the UK Ministry of Defence team which sourced military equipment to support Ukraine in the first six months of the war. He passionately believes that drones are fundamentally changing the character of warfare and brings significant access to the defence market.
Peter Dunn
NON-EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Peter is a chartered accountant and was an insolvency practitioner who founded one of the UK’s leading recovery practices before selling to a quoted vehicle in 2001. More recently, Peter was involved in the restructuring of a private office PE fund, protecting and enhancing the value of assets that were in significant distress. He has extensive contacts within both the investing and recovery communities and a prominent entrepreneurial reputation. He is a founding partner in Zed Capital, a boutique investment vehicle.