OUR TEAM

Operations Director

Joel Best

Joel Best has over 15 years’ experience in the manufacturing industry and holds a degree in Mechanical Engineering from Ulster University. He first joined SAM NI (formerly JW Kane) as a placement student in 2008, returning in 2011 after he had completed his Engineering degree.

Since then, Joel has advanced through a variety of roles within the business, building a comprehensive understanding of the company’s operations. Today, as Operations Director, he is responsible for driving performance across the Portadown facility during a period of significant growth and expansion.

Engineering Director

David Binks

David brings over 20 years of experience in the aerospace manufacturing industry and has built a progressive career at SAM NI, formerly JW Kane.  He began his journey in 2004 as a CNC Machinist/Setter and steadily advanced through a series of key technical and leadership roles, including Machine Cell Leader (2007–2014), Manufacturing Engineer (2014–2018), Chief Engineer (2018–2021), and Production Manager (2021–2022).

Since 2022, David has served as Engineering Director, where he leads the day-to-day operations of the engineering department. Proud to be part of the SAM NI team, where a strong culture of collaboration and continuous improvement is helping to push the boundaries of aerospace manufacturing and engineering excellence.

Finance Director

Colin Telford

Colin joined SAM NI as Financial Controller in August 2023 and was promoted to Finance Director in February 2025. A Chartered Accountant with an Honours Degree in Business Finance and Investments, Colin brings over 15 years of finance experience to the role.

At SAM NI, he leads both the Finance and IT functions, overseeing statutory reporting, performance reporting and data analysis.

His works supports the Operations team in making strategic decisions and driving continuous improvement across the business.

Business Development Manager

Adam Hylands

With over a decade of experience at SAM NI, Adam has developed a deep understanding of the company’s manufacturing processes and strong appreciation of customer needs.

Previously serving as a Programme Manager, he built and maintained key client relationships while delivering high-quality, tailored solutions. In his current role as Business Development Manager, Adam is focused on driving sustainable growth and supporting SAM NI’s long-term strategic goals.

As part of the wider SAM Group, Adam plays an integral role in positioning the company for continued success and future expansion.

Quality Manager

Andrew Watson

Andrew joined SAM NI (formerly JW Kane) in 2010 and now leads the Quality team. With a degree in Engineering Management, Andrew brings extensive experience in business improvement, production and most notably, quality management.

Over the past 15 years, he has played an integral role in the company’s journey and is proud to have contributed to its growth and success.  

While process development and adherence are central to his role, Andrew believes it’s the people and team culture that truly drives SAM NI forward, and he looks forward to continuing to support the company’s development in the years ahead.

HR Manager

Julie Fox

Julie joined SAM NI as HR Manager in June 2022, bringing with her over 30 years in the manufacturing Industry. Her career has spanned key roles including Training and Development, Health & Safety and for the past fifteen years, Human Resources.

In her role at SAM NI, Julie is responsible for all aspects of the HR function, from aligning HR strategies with organisational goals to drive business success, overseeing HR operations, including compliance and employee relations. She is deeply committed to employee well-being and fostering a positive workplace culture.

Julie believes that “an employee who feels appreciated will always do more than is expected.” For her, Human Resources isn’t just a department, it’s the engine that drives the business forward.

Procurement Manager

Michael McKane

Michael is the Procurement Manager at SAM (NI), responsible for overseeing all aspects of the company’s procurement operations.

Since joining SAM NI six years ago as a Business Graduate from Ulster University, he has developed extensive experience in supply chain management and strategic outsourcing.

Michael is passionate about building relationships with both existing and prospective suppliers to deliver long-term value to the business. As the SAM Group continues to grow, he remains focused on developing a robust, efficient and fully compliant supply chain to supports evolving customer requirements.

Operations Manager

David Bigger

David joined SAM NI in 2015 and has since held a variety of key roles across the business, including in New Product Introduction, Quality and Operations. 

In his current role as Operations Manager, David is responsible for overseeing factory output and driving productivity across the facility. 

He holds a degree in Engineering and an MBA, combining technical expertise with strategic insight.  David is proud to be part of SAM NI during a time of significant growth and is excited about the continued development and opportunities that lie ahead.