ABOUT AVANTIS PERFORMANCE

Tony co-founded Avantis Performance with the vision of helping all organisation improve their performance and increase the value they generate. Graduating from the University of Bristol with a Masters in Aeronautical Engineering, he used his analytical mindset to grow and run a £16m per annum Defence Digital portfolio. The account growth and profitability were significant contributors to VIMA’s high value sale to KBR in 2022.

He has over 17 years’ experience of delivering client facing Defence and engineering projects including: £20bn+ cost estimates into a major defence design & procurement programme, contributing to saving £150m (30%) over 4 years in a defence equipment support programme, establishing and maturing PMOs and redesigning the Governance of a government IT department. He is a Chartered Engineer and a Certified Cost Estimator/Analyst (ICEAA).

Married, with 2 daughters, Tony lives near Bath. He enjoys cycling, astrophotography and watching rugby. He is a Parish Councillor and a Governor of the local primary school.

Avantis Performance Co-Founder Sam Crowder is a passionate believer that people are the heart of any business.

As the Head of People and Organisational Development at VIMA Group Sam developed and implemented a People Strategy that saw VIMA grow from 10 to over 150 staff in just four years with a staff turnover of less than 7%.

Sam has had a varied and interesting career working on a range of projects including air to air refuelling tankers, complex weapons systems, maritime navigation aids, marketing campaigns, closing down PFI contracts, acquisitions, mergers and growing multi million-pound businesses. Working across the public and private sectors for large and small organisations.

Sam has a BSc in Astrophysics and an MSc in Aerospace Engineering. He has gone onto become a chartered member of the Chartered Institute of Personnel Development (CIPD) and gain qualifications in Leadership Coaching and Mentoring as well as Project and Programme Management.

He lives in the South-West of England with his family where he enjoys cycling, spending time with his two sons and supporting his local rugby club.

Matt brings more than 25 years of experience across the defence and consultancy sectors, having held senior roles with Babcock, CH2M Hill, Jacobs, and most recently Mott MacDonald, where he served in Director roles across the Defence and Energy markets.

Matt joins Avantis at an exciting time for the business and will play a key role in our continued growth. As COO, he will lead our delivery function, ensuring we continue to provide the industry-leading service our clients expect while ensuring we have the people, processes and partnerships in place to support our continued growth.

A former senior leader at VIMA Group, Consultant Jim Brennan is delighted to have the opportunity to work with Tony and Sam again at Avantis Performance.

A vastly experience Consultant and Capability Leader Jim is a qualified P3M, Control Account Manager and Learning & Development (L&D) professional with over a decade of experience working across a variety of secure and public sector environments. Areas of expertise include Organisational Change Programmes, Information Technology (IT) including Cryptographic Security, Nuclear and Unmanned Air Systems.

Jims’s passion is L&D in professional environments. He has set up and run highly successful L&D capabilities and delivered several Early Careers (Graduate Programmes) receiving 3* recognition for his work with the MoD client.

Jim is a British Army veteran who had a successful career which spanned 24yrs. He now lives in Berkshire with his wife and two young children and enjoys family life to the full and is an avid Liverpool FC supporter.

Kate was eager to join Avantis to reunite with her trusted former colleagues from VIMA, and contribute to the growth of Avantis.

Kate has over eighteen years of experience in delivering technical and business transformation programmes across secure and public sector environments. She excels at understanding client challenges and applying appropriate governance processes to manage solutions. Her passion for helping clients succeed is evident in her personable, supportive, and professional style.

As a P3M Group Leader at Frazer Nash Consultancy, she played a key role in developing P3M capability and supporting professional development of others.

Kate is married with two young children and enjoys traveling, cooking, and exploring the countryside.

Matt Ford is a P3M professional with an extensive background in Information Systems and Business Change across Defence, Government and industry. He is an effective senior leader and pragmatic problem solver, with experience in developing high-performing teams. Recent experience focussed on delivering complex organisational transformation programmes and projects. Matt has a wealth of experience developing project professionals, building organisational capability and embedding project, programme and portfolio management best-practice in complex environments.

Matt's diverse career also includes service in the British Army, where he was responsible for IT and logistics capabilities and he oversaw large-scale reconstruction programmes.

At Avantis Performance, Craig strengthens and grows the Digital Technology capability, helping clients solve complex technology challenges with practical, outcomes-focused support. His work spans:

+ Digital and technology strategy aligned to organisational goals and operating realities.
+ Technology assurance for high-risk, highly secure, and mission-critical environments.
+ Programme and portfolio leadership for complex, multi-stakeholder change.
+ Responsible adoption of AI and emerging technologies, focused on real-world value and risk management.
+ Horizon scanning and future readiness, helping clients anticipate what’s next and plan accordingly.
+ Team leadership and capability building, developing resilient, inclusive, high-performing teams where people, process, and technology work together effectively

Craig joined Avantis Performance for its purpose-led culture, strong values, and practical approach, excited by the opportunity to contribute to meaningful, sustainable outcomes while supporting clients through fast-moving technology change.

Consultant Finlay McEwan was drawn to Avantis Performance having previously worked with Tony and Sam at VIMA. Seeing first hand the success and enjoyment that a values focused business can achieve Finlay wanted to help build the next iteration.

A Managing Consultant at VIMA (later part of Frazer Nash Consultancy), Finlay supported the development of key new opportunities and the growth of existing contracts. He did this through the provision of valuable insights that supported decision making and the delivery of P3M capabilities. He enjoys solving problems and supporting others to develop professional skills and further their career.

Finlay has experience working on a variety of projects across the Oil and Gas and Defence Sectors including offshore decommissioning campaigns, complex manufacturing , digital transformation and development of government skills frameworks.

Finlay has a MEng in Mechanical and Offshore Engineering and is committed to continuous development through personal study and attainment of recognised qualifications.

Finlay lives in Bristol with his Fiancée and enjoys training for novice strongman events, snowboarding and exploring Bristol restaurants.

Dawn brings extensive experience in business analysis and project and programme management, gained across a range of sectors including Financial Services, Defence, and National Security. She has a particular talent for turning complex technical challenges into clear, meaningful insight and takes pride in guiding projects from early concept all the way through to successful delivery.

She is excited to contribute to a diverse portfolio of work at Avantis Performance, especially in roles where she can make a tangible difference. Dawn is also passionate about mentoring and enjoys supporting junior team members, sharing her knowledge, and helping to build a collaborative environment.

Based on the South coast, Dawn makes the most of living near the sea, never misses a good sunset, and loves to travel whenever she can.

Sandrine was thrilled to join Avantis Performance to bring her administrative expertise and caring leadership approach to this professional, dynamic and passionate team.

She brings over 20 years of experience as an Executive Assistant and Office Manager with considerable experience in day-to-day administrative work, resourceful problem-solving and meticulous planning. She has worked with sole traders, entrepreneurs, SMEs and also within large corporate organisations. Her strong financial acumen, combined with her sociable and approachable nature, ensures a supportive and efficient office environment for colleagues and clients alike.

Some of Sandrine’s passions include art, design and beautiful things. In her spare time, you will find her either walking the paths around her village or swimming in the local quarry lake.

Joe joined Avantis Performance, inspired by its people-first culture and strong emphasis on professional growth.
He brings experience in project delivery and research management across cyber transformation and AI-related initiatives, particularly within the defence and security sectors. Joe is especially interested in the intersection of cyber security and artificial intelligence, and how these areas influence wider defence policy.

Joe holds an undergraduate degree in Psychology and a master’s in Military History.

He lives near Bath and enjoys training in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and preparing for ultramarathons in his spare time.

We're delighted to welcome Eve to the team. With extensive experience in project management, she has successfully delivered complex programmes across both the defence and renewable energy sectors. Eve is recognised for her ability to keep projects moving smoothly, manage stakeholder relationships with confidence, and maintain clarity and alignment across teams.

Eve joined Avantis Performance to broaden her skills while taking on varied responsibilities and contributing to the company's continued growth. In her own words: "I am excited to work alongside amazing people and look forward to helping build a culture founded on commitment and trust".

Jacob is an accomplished and results-driven engineering and operations leader with more than two decades of experience delivering and supporting operational communications systems within Defence. He brings deep expertise in secure, resilient communications and has led high‑performing teams in complex, mission‑critical environments where precision and reliability are essential.

During his career in the British Army, Jacob played a key role in shaping engineering assurance across both tactical and strategic networks. His leadership has driven operational excellence, improved network visibility and security, and embedded best practices that strengthen service delivery across demanding defence environments.

Jacob joined Avantis Performance to continue contributing to the evolution of secure communications networks and service management solutions. He is particularly excited to collaborate across teams to deliver innovative capabilities that enhance operational resilience and support our clients’ mission success.

Outside of work, Jacob enjoys staying active through hiking and travelling, exploring the outdoors with his Labrador, Rufus, and spending quality time with his two grown‑up children.

Sean brings extensive experience across Defence ICT and network engineering environments, with a strong background in network infrastructure, service management, technical leadership and problem solving. Having worked across a variety of complex and high pressure environments, he is recognised for strong communication skills and an ability to translate technical challenges into practical solutions that support both users and stakeholders.

Prior to joining Avantis, Sean served in the British Army, where he developed significant expertise supporting and enhancing specialist ICT and network technologies. Throughout his career, he has led teams and worked to improve network resilience, availability and user experience across demanding operational environments.

Andy is a highly experienced and versatile technical engineer and project manager, with over 23 years of service in the British Army delivering critical Defence outputs in complex, high‑pressure environments. He brings deep expertise in networks and systems engineering, cyber security, and strategic project delivery, with a strong track record of transforming capabilities and driving innovation across Defence programmes.

Throughout his military career, Andy led large‑scale digital transformation initiatives, modernised Defence communications architecture, and directed cross‑functional teams to deliver secure, resilient, and efficient communication information systems. His leadership has consistently strengthened system resilience, improved operational readiness, and delivered meaningful cost efficiencies.

Andy joined Avantis Performance to apply his technical and leadership expertise to developing secure, innovative, and scalable communication solutions that enhance our clients’ operational performance and resilience. He is particularly passionate about mentoring teams, fostering collaboration, and delivering outcomes that align technical solutions with strategic organisational goals.

Outside of work, Andy enjoys staying active, exploring the outdoors, playing board games, and going on adventures with his family.

Angus brings experience delivering complex programmes across the Defence and Nuclear Energy sectors. He has a strong background in project delivery and PMO environments, with a focus on stakeholder engagement, communication and supporting teams to deliver effectively in fast paced and often complex settings. Known for his proactive and adaptable approach, Angus is skilled at bringing structure to evolving work and focused on achieving outcomes.

Bruce joins Avantis Performance following a 25‑year career in the British Army’s Royal Corps of Signals, where he served as a Foreman of Signals specialising in communications systems engineering and service delivery. He brings a wealth of Defence experience, a deep understanding of digital resilience, and a strong commitment to strengthening operational effectiveness across complex environments.

With extensive expertise in designing, delivering, and supporting secure communications capabilities, Bruce is passionate about bridging the gap between Defence and industry to improve digital resilience for end users. In his own words: “I joined Avantis because I’m passionate about bridging the gap between Defence and industry — applying my experience to help deliver innovative, dependable solutions that strengthen digital resilience and operational effectiveness, while providing more support for the end users. I’m particularly looking forward to collaborating across teams, learning from new perspectives, and contributing to projects that make a measurable difference for our clients.”

Outside of work, Bruce enjoys spending time with his family in Stafford, exploring emerging technologies, and getting outdoors whenever he can.

Sam began his career as a Submariner in the Royal Navy, specialising in communications, before moving into the private sector where he developed strong experience across sales, account management, and customer loyalty. He is known for building trusted client relationships, taking the time to understand challenges, and delivering meaningful value with his calm, collaborative approach.

Sam joins Avantis Performance eager to be part of an ambitious and professional team, where he can combine his Naval background with his relationship‑driven style to support our continued growth and success. He is particularly motivated by working closely with clients and colleagues to help deliver outcomes that make a real difference.

Based in the heart of Devon, Sam is a big fan of the region’s rugby culture, enjoys long dog walks, and — when the weather plays along — can often be found surfing along the North Devon and Cornwall coast.

Steve joins Avantis following a successful career in the Royal Navy Submarine Service, bringing over 12 years of experience across Defence and security-critical environments. He brings a strong foundation of adaptability, dependability and a calm, methodical approach under pressure. In addition, Steve brings expertise in technical engineering, communications, IT networks and leadership.

Throughout his career, Steve has led teams and supported complex, mission-critical capabilities, working closely with stakeholders and external partners to deliver effective outcomes in demanding environments. He is particularly experienced in tackling complex challenges while maintaining high standards and operational effectiveness.

Steve uses his experience to support Avantis’s continued growth, particularly across Defence.

Averil brings extensive experience across HR, strategic resourcing and workforce planning, with a strong background in recruitment transformation, stakeholder engagement, talent strategy and organisational development. Having worked across the NHS, Local Government and wider public sector, she is recognised for building collaborative relationships, leading high-performing teams and delivering practical solutions to complex workforce challenges.

Throughout her career, Averil has led and supported large-scale recruitment and workforce initiatives, with a particular focus on improving attraction, retention and workforce capability within fast-paced and high-pressure environments. She has also played a key role in developing recruitment strategies, supporting workforce planning initiatives and delivering programmes that create long-term organisational impact.

Jeremy French is our Fractional Chief Financial Officer, with a background as a CFO for a number of founder owned/private equity backed businesses. Jeremy's experience covers many different sectors, including legal services, e-commerce and consultancy including Defence. Jeremy works across all areas of Avantis Performance to help shape our financial growth and strategy.

James joins Avantis with project management experience gained across complex Defence programmes and portfolios. Working with senior stakeholders, he has helped provide the information and assurance needed to support informed decision-making. Alongside his role in Defence, James is currently completing a Project Management Degree Apprenticeship, balancing his studies with hands-on programme delivery.

At Avantis, James will support our growing project management capability, bringing experience from fast-paced delivery environments and a strong commitment to professional development.