Thales has appointed Derek Cheng as the Country Director for Singapore and Chief Executive Officer of Thales Solutions Asia, with his new roles taking effect on October 1, 2026. Cheng succeeds Emily Tan, who is departing the company for a new opportunity.
In his position, Cheng will manage over 2,000 employees across four locations in Singapore. This includes overseeing Thales’ largest multi-module digital identity and security manufacturing center at Ayer Rajah Crescent, as well as its most extensive avionics production and maintenance repair operations (MRO) facility at Changi North Rise.
Cheng comes to Thales from Vertical Aerospace, where he was the Vice-President and Head of Commercial for Asia-Pacific. During his tenure, he was instrumental in developing the company’s advanced air mobility business in the region, focusing on commercial operations, business development, and forming strategic partnerships.
Prior to his role at Vertical Aerospace, Cheng held several senior positions at Airbus in both Toulouse and Singapore. He served as Head of Asia-Pacific for Airbus Urban Mobility, and additionally managed Government and Public Affairs and Strategic Partnerships for the Asia-Pacific region. His work at Airbus involved regional business development, international cooperation, and fostering industrial and sustainable aviation partnerships.
Cheng began his career at Singapore’s Economic Development Board, where he contributed to the growth of the nation’s aerospace and high-technology sectors. He later took on the role of regional director for Europe, based in Frankfurt.
According to Thales, Cheng’s strong background in aerospace engineering and his extensive experience in the aviation sector will significantly contribute to the company’s objectives and expansion plans in Singapore, where it engages in various manufacturing, engineering, and maintenance activities.
