BAE Systems Chief Executive, Charles Woodburn, has released a statement detailing how the defence prime contractor is working to combat the effects of the coronavirus pandemic.
In his statement on BAE Systems’ response to the crisis, Mr Woodburn, said: “We are operating at a time of unprecedented disruption and change around the world as governments in all of our markets continue to tackle public health emergencies due to the ongoing Covid-19 outbreak.”
He said the health and safety of our people remained the Company’s top priority with leadership teams around the world focussing on the steps necessary to protect the health and wellbeing of employees and their families, whilst working with BAE System’s customers and suppliers to minimise the impact on operations.
He stated: “We are monitoring advice from the World Health Organisation and national governments in each of our markets to ensure we are taking appropriate action to help protect our people. In common with many organisations, we have significant numbers of employees working remotely where possible. Our Business Continuity teams are working at pace to look at where and how we can support further remote working, in line with guidance from governments.”
Mr Woodburn confirmed that a number of the Company’s sites around the world would need to continue operating to deliver critical capabilities to help governments and members of the armed forces and security services to protect national security.
He said that actions were being undertaken at these sites to protect staff and minimise disruption, while BAE Systems’ travel policies remain under constant review to align with guidance in the markets in which the Company operate.
Mr Woodburn said: “Like other organisations, we are minimising travel whilst focussing on meeting our customers’ needs. Our suppliers include many small and medium sized companies, who play an important role in supporting our customers. We are exploring how we can further support our supply chain partners during this challenging time.
“We are also carefully considering other actions to assist the communities around the world where we live and work. We are increasing our support to our existing charity partners and we are looking for opportunities to extend our support to charitable organisations supporting the most vulnerable people in our local communities.”
He closed by thanking BAE System’s employees, suppliers and customers for their support, flexibility and patience as the Company continues to take the necessary actions to support the national governments as they manage the coronavirus pandemic.
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Post written by: Matt Brown
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