Press release: Queen’s Birthday Honour for Dstl Chief Executive

Jonathan Lyle, Chief Executive of the Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl) has been made a Companion of the Order of the Bath (CB).

Jonathan is recognised in the 2017 Queen’s Birthday Honours List, in recognition of his exemplary contribution to defence science and engineering over the past 41 years.

As Chief Executive, Jonathan has been responsible for reshaping Dstl’s scientific capabilities to embrace and exploit new disruptive technologies. Through his leadership, dedication, drive and commitment, Dstl has achieved a reputation across government for delivering cutting-edge scientific and technology initiatives.

Jonathan said that his honour reflected the amazing work done by colleagues throughout his career:

I have had the privilege to work with so many talented and committed people. I am deeply honoured to have been recognised with the CB and really do feel this is a reflection of a combined team effort across the lab.

Chair of the Dstl Board Sir David Pepper added:

It has been a privilege and a pleasure to work with Jonathan; he is an exemplary leader, and epitomises the highest standard of public service. He has done an enormous amount for Dstl, and for the use of science and technology in the defence and security of the UK. This award rightly recognises his contribution, and I am delighted to congratulate him on his achievement.

Prior to taking up his current role in 2012, Jonathan worked in a number of roles including:

• Director of Helicopters at the Defence Equipment & Support
• Director of the College of Management and Technology
• Operations Director at the Defence Procurement Agency
• MOD’s Head of Profession for Science
• Head of the Royal Corps of Naval Constructors

He has also worked in the Cabinet Office and the Department for Trade and Industry where he implemented a cross-government science and technology strategy.

Jonathan is a Chartered Engineer and a Fellow of both the Royal Academy of Engineering and the Institution of Engineering and Technology.

He was educated at Kingswood School, Bath, the Royal Naval Engineering College, Plymouth, and University College London.