Xaar appoints new CEO

Edwards is joining Xaar from Kodak where most recently he was president of its Digital Printing and Enterprise business unit, and has been a member of the executive board since 2006.

He started his career in the UK in a variety of technical roles with Ilford Limited, ICI, Zeneca and International Paper before moving to the US 14 years ago with Kodak Polychrome Graphics (a joint venture company between Sun Chemical Corporation and Kodak).

Edwards said: ‘It is a privilege to be asked to lead Xaar through this next phase of the company’s development. Excellent progress has been made by the company over the last decade but the future opportunities ahead of the company in the world of digital printing are substantial, and I am pleased to return to the UK to take up this challenge.’

It was announced in March last year that Dinwoodie is to retire from Xaar in 2015 after serving as CEO since 2003.

Dinwoodie said: ‘I am delighted that Doug is joining Xaar – he brings the right combination of industry expertise and management skills to head the company, and I look forward to handing over the reins to him in the coming months.’

Phil Lawler, Xaar chairman, said: ‘I would like to express my thanks to Ian for his significant contribution to Xaar since joining the company in 2001. Following a thorough international search I am delighted to welcome Doug to Xaar. 

‘His appointment will strengthen the board, providing the experience necessary to lead the company through its next stage of development.’