Appointment made as company looks to the future

He is joining Bystronic at a time when the UK business is strong and increasing market share year-on-year, with turnover currently at an all-time high.

On 1st October 2018 Thombs will take over from the current MD David Larcombe, who has been with the company for 40 years. David started as an apprentice at F J Edwards, which became Edwards Pearson and subsequently Bystronic UK. He will continue helping Thombs full-time until the end of the year and will then work part-time for the Coventry subsidiary as well as for Bystronic's Swiss headquarters.

Larcombe said, "I can honestly say that I have enjoyed every moment of the past 40 years in this industry. Bystronic has been a great company to work for, with such interesting products and services. I have made many great friends over the years within our customer base and I look forward to keeping in touch for many years to come, so I will not be disappearing."

For the past two decades, Thombs was employed by a company specialising in automotive robotics and automation. Serving in different management positions, latterly as Commercial Director, he developed a reputation for a strong focus on customer care.

He gained a degree in Mechanical Design Engineering at Coventry University and his career has been spent entirely within the engineering sector. He has continued his professional development and was awarded the accolade of Large Company Director of the Year in 2015 by the Institute of Directors West Midlands.

Before he takes up his new role, he will be at the next Bystronic UK open house, to be held from 18th to 20th September at 6 Wayside Business Park, Wilsons Lane, Coventry, CV6 6NY.