The Automation Partnership plc (TAP) announced today that David Newble has been appointed as CEO Designate to succeed Dr Andy Morffew who will step down as CEO next April.

Newble joined TAP in January 2006 as CFO. In this position he has been part of the leadership team that has implemented many improvements across the company and in 2007 he led the development of the firm’s revised business strategy.

A Chartered Accountant by training, Newble joined TAP from BTG plc, the intellectual property investment and development company, where he held the positions jointly of Vice President Finance and Director RFID Operations. For some time he lived in Philadelphia, PA where he was the senior finance executive for BTG’s US subsidiary. Here he was responsible for financial control, commercial finance support and general management. He has brought to TAP significant expertise in the management of innovative ventures and licensing technology in both the physical and life sciences fields, as well as familiarity with TAP’s major markets in the USA.

Andy Morffew will continue to serve as TAP’s CEO until the beginning of April. Morffew has agreed to be available as needed on a part-time basis beyond that to ensure long-term continuity with key customers. Since joining The Automation Partnership in 2004, Morffew has led the company’s response to major changes in the life sciences industry. Over this period TAP has introduced new products and opened up new markets, while improving efficiency, effectiveness and customer focus.

Matthew Bullock, Chairman of The Automation Partnership said:

“We are delighted to have found in David the next generation of TAP’s leadership. His experience of business development and licensing add to our acknowledged strengths in engineering and the management of complex biological processes. David was also one of the key authors of the firm’s revised business strategy so that we will have continuity of direction at this important time. David will take over the reins in the Spring from Andy, who is leaving the firm in a stable and profitable position – no small achievement in the current trading environment and providing a firm base on which David can build our growth.”