Jonathan Lee Recruitment Joins ADS Group to Support Growing Defence, Aerospace and Security Sectors

We’re proud to announce that Jonathan Lee Recruitment has returned as a member of ADS Group, the UK’s leading trade association representing the aerospace, defence, security, and space industries on a global basis.

ADS brings together more than 1,100 companies, from major global players to innovative SMEs, creating opportunities for collaboration, knowledge sharing, and growth within these international supply chains.

A Sector Set for Growth

With the UK Government’s commitment to increasing defence spending to 2.5% of GDP by 2027, the industry is set for significant growth. This investment will not only strengthen national security but also create opportunities across the supply chain — particularly for SMEs, who are vital in driving innovation, developing new technologies, and building resilience.

For businesses in these sectors, finding the right skills and talent at all levels and across all functions will be critical to meeting the challenges and opportunities ahead.  This includes Security Cleared personnel requirements.

Why ADS Membership Matters

As a long-standing recruitment partner to the defence and aerospace industries, Jonathan Lee Recruitment has already supported organisations ranging from established primes to pioneering start-ups. Recent highlights include:

🔹 CES Advanced Armour – supporting armour system innovation with specialist engineers
🔹 NP Aerospace – building high-performance teams to meet urgent defence and security demands
🔹 Rheinmetall BAE Systems Land (RBSL) – scaling specialist expertise for next-generation land systems programmes

By joining ADS, we gain access to industry-leading insights, networks, and events that will help us continue delivering the specialist recruitment services our clients and candidates need.

Alongside our membership of other sector representation bodies across Europe, becoming part of ADS reinforces our commitment to both the regional and national aerospace and defence sectors. These memberships provide us with unique insights and networks, helping us connect clients with the specialist skills they need to innovate and grow.

We see ADS as an essential platform for any business working within aerospace, defence, security, or space. For us, membership means being part of a community committed to driving growth, sharing best practice, and ensuring the UK remains a global leader.

Looking Ahead

As ADS members, we look forward to:

• Contributing to discussions on skills, workforce, and recruitment best practice.

• Connecting with fellow members to explore collaboration opportunities.

• Supporting the sector as it grows and transforms in line with national priorities.

Explore more about our Defence Recruitment Services by clicking here.

Interested in Aerospace Recruitment? Click here.