Les Cox is a distinguished executive leader with over two decades of experience driving strategic growth, operational excellence, and sustainability within the energy and manufacturing sectors. With a career spanning global leadership roles across multiple continents, Les has consistently redefined industry standards by integrating innovative risk management, governance, and compliance frameworks into complex, high-stakes environments.
Currently serving as a Director at Ara Partners covering a global remit, Les continues to shape corporate strategy with a forward-thinking approach. Prior to this role, he held executive leadership positions at IHS Towers Group and Kent – Kentech Group DMCC, where he was instrumental in implementing transformative QHSSE and sustainability initiatives. His expertise in risk mitigation and regulatory compliance has influenced multinational operations, managing revenues exceeding $1 billion across 26 countries.
Les’s leadership is characterized by his ability to integrate safety, health, and environmental practices into core business operations. His tenure in executive roles has been marked by the successful implementation of operational excellence frameworks, significantly enhancing safety performance and project outcomes in industries with inherently high risks. His ability to lead organizations through complex transformations has made him a trusted authority in regulatory adherence and governance, particularly in challenging regions such as Iraq, Kazakhstan, MEANA, APAC, and Russia.
A respected strategist, Les has a proven track record of developing and executing compliance and risk management strategies that align with global regulatory expectations. His professional acumen extends across analytical risk assessment, strategic planning, and quality management, making him a key asset to any enterprise navigating the intricacies of international compliance.
Les holds a Postgraduate Degree and Graduate Certificate in Occupational Health and Safety from Edith Cowan University, an Advanced Diploma in Adult Education and Vocational Training from Charles Darwin University, and multiple certifications in management, project leadership, and quality auditing. His commitment to professional excellence is further demonstrated by his affiliation with IOSH, where he has served as a Certified Technical Member and a former member of the IOSH Audit and Risk Committee.
A dynamic leader with a reputation for driving sustainable success, Les Cox continues to shape the future of corporate governance, risk management, and operational safety on a global scale.
Character
Les Cox is a principled and results-driven leader who upholds the highest standards of integrity, accountability, and professionalism in every aspect of his work.
Knowledge
With over 20 years of executive experience, Les Cox possesses deep expertise in risk management, governance, regulatory compliance, and strategic operational leadership across global industries.
Strategic
Les Cox has a proven ability to develop and implement transformative strategies that enhance organizational efficiency, drive sustainable growth, and ensure regulatory adherence in complex, high-risk environments.
Communication
A persuasive and effective communicator, Les Cox excels in articulating vision, fostering collaboration, and engaging stakeholders at all levels to achieve strategic business objectives.
