JFD announces new Managing Director in Australia

JFD Global (part of James Fisher and Sons plc), has appointed Adrian Capner as its new Managing Director of JFD Australia. He will commence his new role on 1 April 2026.

Adrian succeeds Cathy Falkiner who has led JFD Australia for the past five years through a sustained period of growth, positioning JFD’s role as a trusted supplier to the Royal Australian Navy and the company’s overall commitment to Australia’s defence industry.

He joins JFD after a naval career spanning more than 35 years and most recently as Australia’s Naval Adviser to the United Kingdom at the Australian High Commission in London. Prior to this, he held senior executive roles including Director of the Navy and Army Aviation Acquisition Project Office and as leader of the MRH90 Sustainment Remediation Project.  

Dr Allan du Toit AM, Chair JFD Australia, said: "We thank Cathy for her dedication during her time at JFD. She has had a significant impact and leaves a great legacy for the team to build on as we continue to grow our business in Australia. We wish her all the best in her next chapter.

"As we now look ahead, we are pleased to have Adrian at the helm and look forward to his future-focused approach and excellent strategic perspective."  

JFD Global Managing Director, Rob Hales, shared: "We are very pleased to welcome Adrian at JFD. His depth of experience and strong emphasis on trusted relationships will be invaluable as we continue to strengthen our presence in Australia and across our global defence partnerships.

Adrian’s leadership will play an important role in shaping the next phase of our journey."

The appointment of Adrian, who will be based at JFD Australia’s diving and hyperbaric Centre of Excellence in Caringbah, Sydney, highlights JFD’s continued customer focus and commitment to innovation both nationally and across the broader region.

Adrian will be actively involved with JFD’s local, regional and global teams to further enhance and diversify the company’s role as a key sovereign capability provider, including Australia’s established, trusted and mission ready submarine rescue system.