Cambridge Nanotherm today announced that Howard Ford has joined the board as chairman. Ford brings unrivalled experience operating at the highest level in both start-up and global technology companies. His knowledge and experience of transforming companies into global brands will help to ensure Cambridge Nanotherm continues its rapid growth.

Sales of Cambridge Nanotherm’s thermal management solutions for LEDs have exploded in 2015 and Ford will help continue the drive for expansion into key markets in Asia and the US.

“Howard has an outstanding track record in companies large and small. Both our employees and investors are delighted that he has agreed to join as we expand our product offering, customer base and geographical presence and continue to aggressively grow global sales,” commented Ralph Weir, CEO. “Howard’s experience, both at the helm of multinational organisations and moulding tech start-ups into global players makes him the perfect fit for Cambridge Nanotherm as we reinforce our strategic direction and cement our position as one of the market leaders for LED thermal management.”

“Cambridge Nanotherm is transforming the landscape of thermal management,” added Ford. “I’m relishing the opportunity to bring my experience to bear on a company that is making such big waves in the LED market.”

Ford has worked for a wide variety of high-profile technology companies in his career. Significant roles include chief executive of BT Cellnet and general manager of IBM’s European PC business; Ford was also managing director of Equant Network Services before it was acquired by France Telecom in 2005. In addition to Cambridge Nanotherm, Howard currently holds the position of chairman with Display Data, Pyreos, Light Blue Optics and Filtronic plc.

Cambridge Nanotherm’s innovative nanoceramic thermal management solutions have seen unprecedented market demand. Ford’s commercial expertise and strategic vision will help the board and management team build on this foundation. Cambridge Nanotherm’s move to strengthen the board with this appointment follows on from the appointment of Ewald Braith as non-executive director in April.