Online information source for semiconductor professionals

AZ Electronic Materials has appointed Geoff Wild as chief executive officer. Wild will succeed Thomas von Krannichfeldt who retires from the position after five years. von Krannichfeldt remains a member of the board.

Before assuming this position Wild was posted as president and chief executive officer of Cascade Microtech based in Portland Oregon, USA.

Franck Falezan, AZ board member said, "Tom von Krannichfeldt has done a terrific job at AZ, transforming a spin off from Clariant into a vibrant, independent company with a strong and promising product portfolio. On behalf of the Board, I would like to sincerely thank him for a job well done. We are delighted that Geoff Wild has agreed to join AZ; his experience of the sector and AZ's major markets will help propel the business to the next phase of growth."

Jean Francois Felix, chairman of AZ Electronic Materials and managing director at Vestar Capital Partners Europe said, "Geoff Wild brings to AZ a wealth of sales and marketing, technical and general management experience. His leadership and background, particularly in Asian markets, will help AZ continue to grow and prosper. He is an outstanding person to add to our already strong and seasoned management team."

"AZ has great technology strengths, large and expanding market opportunities and a dedicated group of employees worldwide," said Wild. "I am looking forward to building on that foundation and working with the existing team to continue operating improvements, take advantage of our great potential and create growth opportunities for our employees."

Wild will be based in Hong Kong and will be appointed to the board and assume the role of CEO effective on 15 February 2010.