Burlescombe-based XYZ Machine Tools (www.xyzmachinetools.com) has announced the appointment of Howard Bamforth to the role of export sales director, with the key focus of developing the potential for XYZ’s range of ProtoTrak-controlled mills and lathes — as well as its CNC lathes, turning centres and machining centres — across Europe, Africa and the Middle East.

Mr Bamforth has 28 years’ experience in the machine tool business, including time working on machine design and development, project engineering, customer service and sales, both via distributors and directly with customers.

“Coming from a more restrictive environment, it is a refreshing change to join XYZ Machine Tools, which has a management structure that allows quick decision making in order to meet customer and market demands.

“I will be making full use of my experience dealing with European distributors and the relationships that I have developed, as I am a great believer that people buy from people.”

Nigel Atherton, managing director of XYZ Machine Tools, says: “Howard joins us at an exciting time, with new machines being introduced and the company just concluding what looks like being its seventh consecutive year of record sales.

“We are embarking on a new chapter for XYZ, with our first simultaneous five-axis machine and other new developments. Growing our export sales will play a major role in the continuing success of XYZ.

“We have also made administrational changes to enhance our support for export customers, with Jacqui Burton taking on a European sales admin role to support Howard.”