Thirlby, described by InkTec as its “details guru”, joined InkTec in 2017 as business operations manager before taking up a role as operations and HR manager, where she helped to see the firm through the pandemic.
She took up the role as operations director on 1 February 2024.
“I’ve faced a variety of challenges during my time so far at InkTec, and this promotion allows me to continue building and developing the operations side of the business to push the company forwards. My core focus will be to ensure continuous operational development and support for our customers, while also working closely with the team,” Thirlby said.
Her appointment comes as InkTec targets growth across the UK, Europe and South Korea for both its inks and Jetrix-branded wide-format printers.
Joey Kim, managing director of InkTec Europe, said: “As InkTec continues to grow with new product developments being launched and more in the pipeline, it’s an ideal time for Michelle to assume the role of operations director.
“Her leadership will be key in further building our business and maintaining high-quality, uninterrupted customer support.”
Speaking to Printweek, Thirlby added that her first priority in post would be to support InkTec’s upcoming strategic expansions.
“Operationally,” she said, “this will involve enhancing the team to support the the launch of a new printer - the Jetrix LXa5 LED-UV flatbed printer - at Fespa in a few weeks.
“This will include familiarisation and training for the Jetrix engineers to extend our service support for both this printer and obviously the other printers in our range. In addition, the success of our DTF solutions means we are broadening our reach into even more industries and so I will be working closely with the teams to manage this evolution.
“Plus, InkTec are expanding ink manufacturing capabilities at our headquarters in South Korea and so I will be working closely with our Netherlands distribution hub to build up their inventory management."
Thirlby will also have responsibility for employee wellbeing and development policies, an area in which she demonstrated passion as business operations manager by implementing a number of welfare initiatives.
She has also led on a number of corporate social responsibility (CSR) programmes with local charities.
