Oxford Instruments Regulatory News (OXIG)

Nigel Keen to step down as Chairman at September 2016 AGM

Dr Ian Barkshire, Group Chief Operating Officer, appointed to the Board

Oxford Instruments plc, a leading provider of high-technology tools and systems for industry and research, today announces that in line with its Board succession plan, its Chairman Nigel Keen, has decided after 17 years' service that he will step down from the Board with a view to having a transition at the September 2016 AGM. A search for his successor has commenced.

The Group also announces that Dr Ian Barkshire, Group Chief Operating Officer, is joining the Board with effect from today, 10 November 2015. Ian has been with Oxford Instruments since 1997 and has held a number of senior technical and managerial roles before being appointed Chief Operating Officer earlier this year.

The Company confirms that there are no further details that are required to be disclosed under paragraph LR9.6.13(1) - (6) of the UK Listing Rules in respect of Ian Barkshire.

Commenting on today's Board announcement Nigel Keen said:

"I have had a wonderful time with Oxford Instruments and take enormous satisfaction in what has been achieved in changing the group to one that has become customer led, while retaining its leading edge technical solutions. It has been an exciting journey and I look forward to seeing Oxford Instruments build on its position and develop in its next chapter."

Commenting on today's Board announcement, Jonathan Flint, Chief Executive, said:

"I am grateful for the support Nigel has given me. I know I speak for the senior management team who recognise the interest that Nigel has taken in our development. He has given unstintingly of his time to encourage us to pursue opportunities and in being available to help us deal with the challenges that have come our way. He has been an important part of the Oxford Instruments story.

"I am delighted to welcome Ian Barkshire to the Board. Ian has made a major contribution to both operational and technical matters since he joined us eighteen years ago and has proven himself to be a highly capable COO since he took on the role earlier this year. His rounded experience will be a tremendous asset at Board level." 

Issued for and on behalf of Oxford Instruments plc

Enquiries:Oxford Instruments plcTel: 01865 393200Jonathan Flint, Chief Executive

MHPTel: 020 3128 8100Rachel Hirst / Jamie Ricketts

Notes to Editors

About Oxford Instruments plc

Oxford Instruments designs, supplies and supports high-technology tools and systems with a focus on research and industrial applications. The Group aims to pursue responsible development and deeper understanding of our world through science and technology. Its products, expertise, and ideas address global issues such as energy, environment, security and health. Innovation has been the driving force behind Oxford Instruments' growth and success for over 50 years. Its strategy is to effect the successful commercialisation of these ideas by bringing them to market in a timely and customer-focused fashion.

The first technology business to be spun out from Oxford University, Oxford Instruments' objective is to be the leading provider of new generation tools and systems for the research and industrial sectors with a focus on nanotechnology. Its key market sectors include nano-fabrication and analysis. The Group is expanding the business into the life sciences arena, where nanotechnology and biotechnology intersect.

This involves the combination of core technologies in areas such as ultra-low temperature and high magnetic field environments; Nuclear Magnetic Resonance; X-ray, electron, laser and optical based metrology; atomic force microscopy; optical imaging; advanced growth, deposition and etching.