Presstek appoints industry outsider as new CEO

Presstek has appointed former iRobot Corporation chief operating officer Jeff Beck to succeed David Savage as its president and chief executive officer.

The US-based press manufacturer announced Beck's appointment this month after Savage was appointed to head up fellow American Industrial Partners portfolio company WaterJet Holdings.

While Beck has held senior leadership positions at a number of technology-focused businesses, including senior vice-president and general manager of the Aerospace and Defence division at Ametek Corporation, this marks his first senior role in print.

Presstek said that Beck's technology background and "experience in launching sizeable service businesses and creating diversified and profitable business platforms" would serve the company well in "strengthening and building its core products and services portfolio".

Beck said: "I am very excited to join Presstek during this stage of its renewal. Presstek has made excellent progress improving operational and financial performance since being acquired by private equity firm AIP in 2012.

"I look forward to leading Presstek into the next exciting era, investing in R&D and launching new environmentally friendly print systems that help our customers remove complexities, chemistry and waste from their production chain.

"Our goal is to foster strong customer relationships, achieve sustainable profitability, and enhance our position in the industry."

Beck's appointment was effective from 1 May 2014.