Last checked at 9 May 2016 07:00
Oxford Instruments plc
Appointment of Non-Executive Director and Chairman Designate
Oxford Instruments plc, a leading provider of high-technology tools and systems for industry and research, today announces the appointment of Alan Thomson as a non-executive Director and Chairman Designate. He will join the Board with effect from 1st June 2016 and will be appointed Chairman following the retirement of Nigel Keen, Oxford Instruments' current Chairman, who has previously announced his intention to step down immediately following the Annual General Meeting on 13 September 2016 after 17 years' service.
Alan Thomson is a highly experienced Chairman and non-executive Director. He is currently Chairman of Bodycote plc and Hays plc. He is a former Chairman of Polypipe Group plc, senior independent Director of Johnson Matthey plc and non-executive Director of Laporte plc. Alan had a distinguished executive career at several world leading industrial groups, most recently as CFO of Smiths Group plc. A graduate of Glasgow University and a Chartered Accountant, Alan's early career was with Arthur Andersen and Price Waterhouse. He is a past President of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Scotland.
Nigel Keen, Chairman of Oxford Instruments, said: "I am delighted that in Alan we have found an exceptionally able Chairman to succeed me when I step down in September. His breadth of experience leading highly respected international businesses will be an enormous asset to Oxford Instruments as the Group continues to develop and grow globally."
Alan Thomson commented: "Oxford Instruments is a brand that is recognised by industry and research institutions around the world for its ability to advance science and provide leading-edge technologies. I will enjoy working with such a talented team in building on Oxford's position as the world leader in nanotechnology."
Jonathan Flint, Oxford Instruments' Chief Executive said, "On behalf of the Board, I want to thank Nigel for the extraordinary contribution he has made in shaping and growing Oxford Instruments over his distinguished 17 year career as our Chairman. He has been an inspiring chairman helping to establish Oxford Instruments as an undisputed leader in the business of science. He has also been a major influence in championing the supremacy of the UK's science base on the world stage."
Ian Barkshire, Oxford Instruments' COO and Chief Executive Designate, added: "Alan's wide-ranging experience makes him the ideal Chairman to be taking over from Nigel and I feel excited at the prospect of working with him.
The Company confirms there are no further details that are required to be disclosed under paragraph LR9.6.13 of the UK Listing Rules in respect of Alan Thomson.
ENDS
Enquiries:
Oxford Instruments plc
Tel: 01865 393200
Nigel Keen, Chairman
Jonathan Flint, Chief Executive
MHP Communications
Tel: 020 3128 8100
Rachel Hirst / Jamie Ricketts