Burnley-based Safran Nacelles Ltd (www.safran-nacelles.com), one of Burnley’s biggest employers, has appointed Michael Rigalle as its new managing director — and revealed plans to invest £12 million in the site over the next four years.

The company is responsible for the design, development and manufacture of nacelles for a wide range of aircraft — from business jets to large commercial aircraft.

Mr Rigalle said: “It’s an exciting time for Burnley, as we invest in the site to enhance our manufacturing capabilities and ensure that we increase the rate of production on the Airbus A320neo and A330neo.

"We will also continue to use our expertise in engineering design, quality, composite and component manufacturing — plus final assembly — for our other programmes, such as the thrust reversers for which we are a world-wide centre of excellence.

"Having seen the talented workforce here, I know that these challenges will be met with enthusiasm and delivered to the highest standard.”

Safran currently employs around 750 people at its Burnley site, and it has taken on 89 apprentices in the last five years in partnership with Burnley College.