Knowles joins from ADS, where he headed comms for the trade body of the UK’s aerospace, defence and security industries.
At Boeing, Knowles will take responsibility for the company’s comms strategies, comma partnerships with suppliers and customers and engagement with other stakeholders.
He will also support the company’s community outreach programmes and sponsorships, including the Boeing Build a Plane challenge for schools and the British Military Tournament
Sir Roger Bone, president of Boeing UK and Ireland commented: ‘The UK is a crucial market for Boeing, from supporting the UK’s Armed Forces with equipment such as the CH-47 Chinook helicopter to working with valued airline customers.
‘We are delighted to welcome Matthew to lead communications in this important area for the company. He will work closely with Boeing Defence UK, Boeing Commercial Airplanes and the international teams to enhance the company’s reputation and help grow our business here.’
Knowles replaces Nick West who had headed Boeing’s UK and Ireland comms for almost eight years, before joining UK-based defence tech company Raytheon in May this year.
Formerly, Knowles led the policy and comms team at the British Chambers of Commerce and held similar senior roles in other UK trade associations and local government before heading up PR for the Federation of Small Businesses.
Boeing employs more than 1,000 people across the UK and has worked with British industry, the Armed Forces and the air transport industry for over 70 years.
