The Chief Executive of Spectris plc, Hans Nilsson, has resigned.

The Board wishes to acknowledge the positive contribution made by Mr Nilsson to the strategic positioning of the business for growth. To take full advantage of this positioning, the Board considers that a change in management style is now needed, with a different balance between strategic development and operational drive.

The Board is seeking to appoint a new Chief Executive to realise the company’s full margin and profit potential. Pending that appointment, the Chairman, John Poulter, previously Chief Executive, will assume executive responsibility.

Mr. Nilsson will be compensated in line with the terms of his twelve-month contractual notice period, subject to a duty to mitigate.

At the Annual General Meeting on 11 May, the company confirmed its expectation of encouraging progress for 2005, which is reiterated.