Our global presence

We have opportunities in more than 50 countries.

Our Locations

Students & Graduates

Set your sights beyond tomorrow

What we’re creating today will shape the future.

Students & Graduates

Professionals

Unlock your brilliance at every opportunity

World-class products start with world-class people.

Professionals

STEM

The power of thought

We’re working with tomorrow’s scientists and engineers.

STEM

Apply

Site Services

Andy Smith

Technology Lead at Rolls-Royce, Derby UK

Tell us about what you do at Rolls-Royce.

I initially came to Rolls-Royce for a summer job as an undergraduate, then returned full time when I graduated in 1987.

Now, I’m Technology Lead for Combustion & Turbines Enabling Technologies. I manage the plan, which means understanding the technical requirements of each programme and how they stack up against business priorities. I enjoy the work here and the varied technical challenges the aerospace business has.

Which networks are you involved in?

I became a Christian while studying at Durham University, and I have been a Christian for almost 35 years now. I was involved in starting the Multi-Faith Network (MFN) at Rolls-Royce in October 2016.

Things really moved forward when I made contact with members of the Muslim community within Rolls-Royce. We set up a working party and had our launch meeting in September 2017, which was amazing.

We hold ‘lunch and learn’ sessions and annual reviews, where we hear inspiring talks and personal stories which challenge and motivate. We also promote faith rooms and specific seasonal events such as Ramadan, Easter and so on.

How has MFN helped you at work?

It’s really removed the myths around faith and has given a human face to issues. That makes for a much better working environment because people can relate to one another more, and therefore work together better as a team.

We spend so much time at work, so I think it’s important to be able to bring religion into the workplace – it enables a healthy work/life balance. I also find that praying with other members of the network really boosts morale. I’m so proud to be able to tell people outside of Rolls-Royce that there is an MFN.

How does Rolls-Royce support the network?

Specific members of the Executive Leadership Team (ELT) are assigned as sponsors of the MFN. Their support and guidance has been invaluable to helping the MFN advance as quickly as it has. Seeing so many of the senior leaders at our launch was one of the proudest moments of my career so far.

Our annual reviews have been well supported by the ELT, including CEO Warren East who attended in November 2018. Rolls-Royce has also supported our faith rooms and listened to feedback on their use and design.