Former sales director Greg Bird has re-joined the business as of today (1 July), in the role of deputy managing director.

He had joined Muller Martini GB as a sales manager in May 2018, four months after Kolbus sold its perfect binding and book line business to Muller Martini.

“I have enjoyed my time with Muller Martini but the offer to undertake this new role with Kolbus UK was a fantastic opportunity to return to a company which I enjoyed being part of previously,” said Bird, whose primary responsibility will be sales, embracing the packaging sector.

“With the new direction into packaging showing real momentum and growth I will embrace the chance to help continue the excellent progress made in this sector.”

Kolbus UK managing director Robert Flather added: “I’m delighted to have Greg back on the team. He’s such an experienced salesman who is well respected by our customers and he brings a wealth of technical knowledge as well.

“It enables me to step back from sales and spend more time on other responsibilities across the group.”

Arran Sethi was appointed as sales manager around three months ago, joining the business after four years in a similar role with corrugated machinery company British Converting Solutions (BCS), now Kolbus Autobox following Kolbus Group’s acquisition of the business last year.

Sethi has been tasked with selling the full range of Kolbus equipment.

“When it comes to bespoke box making, we can now exploit the crossover between box making and book making,” said Sethi.

“And I look forward to having the opportunity to discuss this with Kolbus UK customers old and new.”

Finally, Jon Walker is taking on the new position of technical director of Kolbus Autobox with immediate effect, while also continuing his involvement with the Kolbus Webfolder.

Walker was previously vice president of digital solutions at Kolbus and, prior to that, technical sales director at Timsons.

The new hires are all additional to Kolbus UK, which now employs 14 staff.