Rugby-based HK Technologies (www.hkhtechnologies.com) has appointed a new managing director to help it capitalise on its recent acquisition by the Engineering Technology Group (ETG).

Gareth Jones, who spent 11 years with In-Comm Training, has been recruited to help the additive manufacturing, EDM
and laser marking specialist increase its sales by 20%.

He will also be responsible for ‘long-term strategic planning across the group, as well as using his ability to forge strategic partnerships across industry to open up new markets’.

Mr Jones said: “It is a fantastic time to be joining HK Technologies, especially with the awareness and demand for our technology growing by the day.

"Moreover, the acquisition gives us a fantastic opportunity to cross-sell and add value to ETG clients and vice-versa, potentially opening up a whole new market for both companies.

"We need a strategy in place to make the most of this and to leverage the strength of our brands, and that’s what I’ve been brought in to achieve.

“We believe there is an immediate increase in sales available; and having met some of the technical people we have here, I feel there is a real opportunity for us to provide even more support and consultancy to clients exploring 3-D printing for the first time.

“There is also real potential to grow Mitsubishi EDM’s UK sales to mirror levels in Europe, where it has 22% of the market-place.”

ETG’s managing director, Martin Doyle (www.engtechgroup.com), said: “ETG and In-Comm Training have enjoyed a very strong partnership overthe last five years, highlighting the need for industry and training providers to work together to bridge the skills gap.

"We have seen first-hand the impact Gareth can have on a business, and I’m pleased to welcome him to head up the next stage of HK Technologies’ development and to shape our ambitious growth plans.”