Simon Gilbert

Simon Gilbert is the Head of Defence Futures at the Met Office, where he leads the organisation’s strategic science and technology capability development for UK Defence, NATO and international partners. With a career spanning more than two decades, Simon brings extensive experience in strategic leadership, meteorology, programme management, and international collaboration.

He began his career as an operational meteorologist, serving both military and civilian customers before moving into training roles at the Met Office College and later leading international capacity‑building initiatives, including work with the World Meteorological Organization (WMO). He also worked with the UK Government Public Weather Service Customer Group to ensure that the Met Office developed and delivered valued products and services for the benefit of all UK citizens.

Simon has since held senior leadership roles across observations, technical services and defence engagement, acting as Senior Responsible Officer for the Defence Capability Programme (DCP) and shaping long‑term capability for defence weather and climate services. He is recognised for his strong stakeholder management, emotional intelligence, and his ability to drive impactful partnerships across government and international agencies.