Xaar appoints new director of advanced manufacturing

Xaar targets growth in manufacturing applications with the appointment of Keith Smith to the new role of director of advanced manufacturing.

Smith, who is based in the zUS and reports directly to Xaar CEO Doug Edwards, is responsible for identifying and developing strategic advanced manufacturing opportunities and partnerships outside the company’s established markets.

He joins Xaar from Chinese touch sensor manufacturer Token ITO, and has 16 years’ experience in direct and channel sales management and selling B2B solutions. His appointment marks a return to Xaar, having been sales manager for North and South America from 2002-05.

“I’m excited and delighted to be returning to Xaar in this new position which recognises the huge opportunities for our technology in advanced manufacturing applications,” said Smith. “In particular, there are exciting possibilities in the touch sensor display sector as consumer electronics manufacturers look to reduce costs as well as increase touch-screen functionality. Interest in inkjet is also high in semiconductors, production 3D printing, and robotic coating applications within automotive and aerospace manufacturing.”

Xaar is one of the world leaders in the development of inkjet technology and manufacture of piezoelectric drop-on-demand industrial printheads. The company also develops and sells ink systems, electronics and fluid optimisation services to accelerate inkjet system development and adoption.