Burlescombe-based XYZ Machine Tools (www.xyzmachinetools.com) has announced two strategic changes to its management team as it looks to build on its on-going sales success and further develop its product portfolio.

The company has also announced that long-serving commercial director Keith Wilson will retirein September 2019; to ensure a smooth transition, the search for his replacement has already begun.

Martin Burton’s role as XYZ’s UK sales manager has been expanded to take in all of the company’s customer-facing groups; he becomes the company’s sales and service director, with responsibility for sales, service and applications support.

The second change sees mechanical-engineering manager Mark Chappell take on extra responsibility in the newly created role of operations manager; this will see him oversee and manage production and product improvements.

XYZ’s managing director, Nigel Atherton, said: “These two strategic changes will further enhance the high level of service and support we provide to customers, while also streamlining our management team.

“With these changes undertaken, we can now start the search for Keith’s replacement.

“During his tenure as commercial director, XYZ Machine Tools grew from a business with a £1 million turnover, employing four people, to one with a £34 million turnover and 87 people.”