The Hemel Hempstead business has taken on Tim Clifton in the new role of technical director, while Chris Page joins the team as business development manager.
Clifton has worked in the industry for more than 35 years, and was the founder of Cliftons Bookbinders.
After the trade finishing side of the business was sold to Precision Proco Group in 2021 he stayed on as a consultant and technical lead, working on group projects.
Page also has decades of experience, including roles at Watkiss Automation, Konica Minolta, and most recently at Morgana Systems.
IFS managing director Eric Keane said customer demands had evolved as the industry increasingly moves to more automated, integrated systems.
“Our business has changed since Covid. Whereas before we might sell a standalone machine, that has morphed into a production line of joined up devices.
“These are a lot more sophisticated systems, that also need to be integrated into a workflow so the requirement is a lot more detailed.”
Keane praised Clifton and Page for the breadth of experience and skills they brought to the new roles.
“They bring a wealth of knowledge with them, and we look forward to the positive impact they will make to both the business and our extensive client base,” he said.
Clifton becomes the firm’s technical lead and will oversee expansion of its technical and support services.
Keane said Page’s experience collaborating with digital press manufacturers would help the firm grow sales of Horizon and other IFS products in that area.
“In the print sector particularly in post-press area, there’s so much innovation from key manufacturers,” Keane added.
“Strong companies are looking to invest in high-level automation, and that’s where we’re seeing the uptake in business – there’s definitely an appetite for that. I’m very optimistic about this year.”
IFS had sales of £7.5m last year, and employs 28.
The firm is the long-standing UK partner for Japanese manufacturer Horizon, and its portfolio also includes BaumannPerfecta, Tecnau, Smyth, Foliant, Petratto and Italdibipack.
