A MANUFACTURER based in County Durham is setting its sights on further market growth with the appointment of a new chief executive.

North-East born Chris Callan takes up the new role at Seaward Electronic Ltd after building a successful career in the electronics industry working with businesses around the UK and in the USA.

Since graduating as an electronics and software engineer at Newcastle University, Mr Callan has gained widespread experience in business development, product management and executive roles in the medical, automotive and telecoms markets.

At its head office in Peterlee, and with an operation in Tampa, Florida, Seaward employs around 160 people and is a market leading manufacturer of electronic test and measurement instruments.

In taking up his new position, Mr Callan believes there are considerable opportunities for the company to build on its successful market presence, both in the UK and overseas.

He said: “I am delighted to be joining Seaward and I am very excited about the future potential of the business. The company’s strong reputation and international market presence were major attractions for me and I am looking forward to working with everyone to continue to grow and take the business forward."