David Hayes-Export Controls
David Hayes is an esteemed authority in export controls and sanctions, drawing from substantial industry and regulatory engagement. In tandem with his independent consultancy, he serves as the Director of UK Affairs at The Trade Compliance Group, previously known as MK Technology LLC, a trade consultancy headquartered in Washington DC.
Post his tenure at the UK Export Control Organisation in the late 90s, David assumed the mantle of Head of Compliance for leading entities in the Fortune 500 and FTSE 100, making noteworthy contributions to US export compliance encompassing ITAR, EAR, and DoE/NRC nuclear controls. His achievements within the aerospace domain led to his recognition as a Fellow of the Royal Aeronautical Society.
Since founding his consultancy in 2007, David has delivered services globally across diverse industries, covering dual-use and military products, while providing specialized guidance to legal firms in areas like M&A due diligence, criminal investigations, and extradition. Referrals from past or current clients constitute the primary source of new business.
As the founding Chair of the Export Group for Aerospace and Defence (EGADD), David directed its evolution into the pre-eminent UK export control trade body. In 2012, he stepped down from his EGADD Chair position to allocate more time to his consultancy.
A recurrent speaker at national and international export control events, David emphasizes effective compliance training. He played a pivotal role in formulating the UK’s first externally accredited export control training, delivered jointly by Cranfield University and EGADD.
In 2015, he joined an EU-funded research project as a member of the International Trade Compliance Advisory Board for the project. He also served as a guest speaker for the Executive Masters in International Trade Compliance at the University of Liverpool Management School. His clientele encompasses universities and research institutions.
In 2022, David’s appointment to the Professional Steering Group of the Higher Education Export Control Association underscored his commitment to the development of nationally available training in strategic export controls, funded by Research England for implementation in the higher education sector. He is committed to increasing awareness of the strategic importance of effective trade compliance across all sectors.
Beyond his professional pursuits, David holds credentials as a helicopter pilot and boasts a decade-long tenure as an Intelligence Officer with the Royal Auxiliary Air Force’s 7006(VR) Intelligence Squadron, specializing in Air Defence and Electronic Warfare. Additionally, he is a certified Six-Sigma Green Belt.
David Hayes BSc(Hons), FRAeS Director