Personnel

Today (29 March) is the last press day for Economist production director Sharon Simpson, who retires on 31 March after a 20-year career at the publisher.

Finishing equipment manufacturer Kern has lauded its "young and motivated workforce" after a second apprentice graduated to become a full-time employee of the company.

Oc's Rokus van Iperen has been appointed to lead Canon Europe, following the retirement of current chief executive Ryoichi Bamba, according to reports in the Dutch media.

Tributes have poured in from across the direct marketing sector for Professor Derek Holder, co-founder of the Institute of Direct Marketing (IDM), who passed away earlier this month.

FFEI has spoken out on the urgent need to inspire future generations to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics in order to help rebalance the economy.

David Lightfoot has joined Precision Colour Printing in a new operations role.

Langley Holdings has appointed one of its seasoned veterans to head up Manroland Sheetfed Systems in its post-acquisition "transitional period".

Xaar has dismissed claims made by the former staff of its Chinese subsidiary that they had not resigned, as per Xaar's public statement last week, but were instead "on strike".

EFI has hailed its APPS and inkjet divisions for their "record" performance in its 2011 results and launched a US-wide recruitment drive for print consultants to join its professional services team.

Former Bezier chief executive Mark Shaw has joined Inspired Thinking Group (ITG) as business development director, teaming up with former rival Simon Ward in what the company has dubbed "a statement...