Brightbridge Search Supports Appointment of Paul Baker as Managing Director at Todd Research

Brightbridge Search is delighted to have partnered with Spring Ventures on the successful appointment of Paul Baker as Managing Director of Todd Research.

This appointment follows a comprehensive executive search process to identify a leader capable of guiding Todd Research through its next phase of growth. As a private equity-backed business operating in the highly specialised field of security screening technology, the brief required a proven executive with strong commercial acumen, international experience, and a track record of delivering transformation in regulated markets.

A Critical Leadership Appointment

Todd Research is a UK-based leader in advanced X-ray screening technology, serving a global customer base across aviation, government, logistics, and corporate security.

With strong foundations and clear market opportunities—particularly in aviation security—the business is well positioned for expansion. The appointment of a Managing Director was a key strategic priority to provide leadership clarity, accelerate growth, and unlock value as part of its private equity journey.

Spring Ventures appointed Brightbridge Search to lead this process, leveraging our expertise in identifying senior leaders for complex, growth-focused and investor-backed environments.

Identifying the Right Leader

Following an extensive search, Paul Baker was identified as the standout candidate.

Paul brings significant experience as a CEO and Group Managing Director, with a strong track record of revitalising businesses, driving international growth, and delivering improved financial performance.

His background spans global markets and highly regulated sectors, aligning closely with Todd Research’s strategic focus. He has consistently demonstrated the ability to scale businesses, build high-performing teams, and implement clear, actionable growth strategies.

Delivering Against a Complex Brief

The role required a leader who could combine technical credibility with commercial leadership—capable of navigating long B2B sales cycles, engaging with global stakeholders, and capitalising on emerging market opportunities.

Paul’s experience in delivering large-scale growth, entering new markets, and leading transformation programmes made him ideally suited to the opportunity.

Frank Suhadolnik, Brightbridge Search, commented:“Paul stood out throughout the process as a highly credible, commercially driven leader with the ability to operate effectively in complex, regulated environments. His track record of driving growth, combined with his leadership style and strategic clarity, made him an exceptional fit for Todd Research at this important stage in its journey. We are proud to have supported Spring Ventures in securing such a high-calibre appointment.”

A Strong Cultural Fit

In addition to capability, cultural alignment was critical. Todd Research places strong emphasis on its people, partnerships, and commitment to quality—values that Paul embodies through his leadership style and approach.

Looking Ahead

Paul’s appointment marks an important milestone for Todd Research as it enters a new phase of growth and innovation.

Brightbridge Search is proud to have supported Spring Ventures and Todd Research in securing a leader of Paul’s calibre and looks forward to seeing the continued success of the business under his leadership.