Powell Electronics aims to help regional manufacturers source high-reliability components and obtain technical support
Powell Electronics has expanded its operations into Australia and New Zealand (ANZ) by opening a branch office in Sydney and appointing Dhanya Chandrasekhar as Regional Sales Manager ANZ. The move aims to strengthen the company’s support for defence, aerospace and electronics manufacturers as Australia increases investment in domestic manufacturing capabilities.
Chandrasekhar joined Powell Electronics in September 2026 and will lead efforts to establish and grow the company’s presence across the region, working with Powell Electronics Europe and sister company ECM. She brings approximately 15 years of experience in electronic component distribution and contract manufacturing, with previous roles including Regional Sales Manager ANZ at Element14 and Sales Manager at Circuitwise Electronics Manufacturing.
In her new role, Chandrasekhar will provide Australian and New Zealand defence primes, contract manufacturers and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) with access to Powell Electronics’ authorised product lines, including Amphenol Aerospace, Glenair, Samtec and Positronic. The offering is supported by QPL-listed products, AS9100-certified quality systems and component traceability.
The expansion comes as Australia increases defence spending and focuses on developing sovereign manufacturing capabilities and boosting local content across defence and space programmes. Powell Electronics aims to help regional manufacturers source high-reliability components and obtain technical support while addressing the stringent requirements of defence and aerospace supply chains.
“Powell Electronics is uniquely positioned to support the region’s focus on developing sovereign manufacturing capabilities and increasing local content across its defence and aerospace programmes,” said Gary Evans, CEO of Powell Electronics Europe and Australia.
According to the company, its engineering-led approach provides technical design-in support from concept through production, helping customers address complex requirements, accelerate development and transition products into manufacturing.
Chandrasekhar said the priority would be to provide local manufacturers with direct access to authorised product lines and technical support to help reduce lead times and strengthen supply chain resilience.
