John Best

Vice President, Chief Technical Officer

Thales Australia

John joined ADI Limited in 2003, initially responsible for the operations of Advanced Systems, he led the integration of this business into the wider ADI and its transformation into a centre for research and development. During this period he also directed ADI's bid to supply the Army with tactical unmanned aerial vehicles. In April 2005 John was appointed general manager strategy within the Electronic Systems business group.

Following a brief period in the role of chief technologist, John was appointed vice president, Technology, Research and Development upon the formation of Thales Australia. In this role he has overall responsibility for the technical capability of the company, which encompasses technical strategy, research and development, innovation, engineering process and engineering development. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree with First Class Honours in Physics from the University of Queensland, a PhD in Mathematics from the University of Wollongong and an MBA from the University of Adelaide.