London – October 2, 2024 | BOKA Group, today announces the appointment of Sir Ben Wallace, KCB, PC as a Partner and part of its expanding investment team, starting on October 2, 2024.
BOKA Group is an expanding Private Equity fund, investing in next generation technology, focusing on AI, cybersecurity, quantum, aerospace, advanced manufacturing and infrastructure innovation.
BOKA’s portfolio companies serve both the growing demands of the commercial sector as well as providing solutions to national security and defence communities within NATO, AUKUS and allies.
Sir Ben is a distinguished British politician, a former Security Minister and one of Britain’s and NATO’s longest serving Defence secretaries, in office from 2019-2023. He brings a wealth of experience in defence development, policy, military strategy, and national security.
During his tenure his leadership coincided with major geopolitical events, including the current Ukraine conflict and the UK’s withdrawal from Afghanistan. He was an instrumental figure in the creation and publishing the UK’s first Defence Artificial Intelligence Strategy and establishing the UK National Cyber Force.
Leveraging his extensive understanding of innovation in defence and national security, with strong government and commercial relationships, Sir Ben will be part of BOKA Group’s leadership team guiding our direction and expanding market presence and accelerating growth.
Sir Ben Wallace said: “It is in everybody’s interest that the West protects itself from those that seek us harm. Sadly, threats are aimed, not just, at our militaries but also our private sectors and infrastructure. If we are to stay one step ahead of our adversaries, then we need to invest in next generation technology and learn from the current conflicts.
“I’m joining BOKA Group because I believe together we can lead in defence innovation and investment. I will be using my experience to help BOKA become experts in targeting needed solutions for defence and security requirements as well as dual use technology that has the ability to deliver growth across the board.”
A spokesperson for BOKA said: “We are pleased to welcome Sir Ben Wallace. His deep understanding of the defence sector and the geopolitical landscape, together with his proven leadership as one of NATO’s longest serving defence ministers, will be instrumental in propelling BOKA Group further in this rapidly expanding sector””
A spokesperson for ADS, the trade association for for the UK’s aerospace, defence, security and space sectors, said: “Investment in the UK defence sector is critical to our ongoing success, and on behalf of our 1400 member companies, we are always delighted to welcome any and all vehicles that unlock opportunities for growth, innovation and capability development.
“SMEs in particular find it it difficult when accessing finance for their ongoing development, and ADS look forward to working in close collaboration with former Secretary of State for Defence, Ben Wallace, as he joins BOKA Group as Partner in its in its investment team.”
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About Sir Ben Wallace, KCB, PC
Sir Ben Wallace is a distinguished British politician. He was appointed Secretary of State for Defence in 2019, overseeing critical defence policies and military operations. Notably, he became one of the UK’s and NATO’s longest-serving Secretary of State for Defence.
Sir Ben played a crucial role in major defence initiatives, including the AUKUS pact, NATO collaborations, and broader defence reform. He delivered the £22 billion Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP) partnership in 2022 and was instrumental in establishing the UK National Cyber Force in 2020. Prior to his role as Defence Secretary, he served as Minister of State for Security and Economic Crime. His time in that role included the response to Russian use of nerve agent in Salisbury, the 2017 Terror attacks and the Wannacry cyber attack.
Sir Ben attended the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst and served as a Captain in the Scots Guards, seeing active service in Northern Ireland, Germany, Cyprus, and Central America. He was mentioned in dispatches on operations and was Knighted (Knight Commander of the Order of the Bath) in 2024 for his political and public service.
About BOKA Group
BOKA Group is a mission-driven fund investing in dual-use technology companies addressing critical challenges across sectors such as security and defence, aerospace and spacetech, AI and quantum systems, and sovereign resilience, including advanced manufacturing, sustainable energy and critical infrastructure.
BOKA specializes in growth-stage investments that advance technology innovation, fortify national security, and enhance sovereign resilience, particularly among allied nations in AUKUS and NATO partnerships. With a focus on next-generation deep technologies—including artificial intelligence, quantum systems, and cybersecurity—BOKA is committed to safeguarding democratic values and fostering societal resilience.
Leveraging unparalleled access to government and defense networks, BOKA empowers its portfolio companies to scale effectively across both public and commercial markets, driving transformative impact.
Learn how BOKA Group is leading the charge in dual-use, mission driven, deep technologies at www.boka-group.com and connect with us on LinkedIn.
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