Flint Group has appointed Robert Welford as president for Xeikon, its digital division. Welford is stepping up from his current position as vice-president of research and development.

Xeikon said Welford will now lead the company through the next phase of success, reaffirming its commitment to bringing the latest innovations in digital printing to customers across the globe.     

Welford has been associated with the printing industry for 18 years, holding numerous positions, including chief engineer at Fujifilm Electronic Imaging, where he led R&D, manufacturing and production engineering and oversaw product launches. 

At Xaar, as director of R&D, he was responsible for activities from conception to production and launch of new print head technology platforms. His last position as director of the program management office at Xaar gave him responsibility, amongst other things, for the co-development of programs in America and Asia.

Welford, who joined Xeikon in September 2018, took over the management of research and development, with a broad remit overlooking the engineering operations, the ink and toner competence centres, and the print process and project management office. 

As the new president, he will further leverage these competencies as the company accelerates the industrialisation of its product line and continued integration with Flint Group.

“I’m very proud to be given the opportunity to head up this industry-leading technology company which has been a pioneer in digital printing since the very beginning,” Welford said. 

“Xeikon has always had a strong focus on customer-centric developments and application-driven solutions, and its name has become synonymous with breakthrough innovations and technology.

“Crucially, it comes with an excellent team of professionals who are known for their vast experience and in-depth expertise.

 “This is an exciting industry to be part of, but like all other companies, I’m certain that we will have our share of new challenges and pressures as the market and our customers’ needs keep changing and evolving. 

“Therefore, Xeikon will continue its unwavering mission to support printers and converters with the tools they need to successfully navigate the future and grow their businesses – in labels, corrugated packaging and graphic arts.”