Capital equipment manufacturers, Amtech Systems, announced a reshuffle consisting of Fokko Pentinga’s promotion to CEO, effective January 1, 2012 and J.S. Whang as executive chairman, a role focussing on external growth opportunities.
Pentinga, who will retain his current position as president, has over 30 years' experience in the solar and semiconductor industries as well as 17 years at Amtech, having played a vital role in securing Amtech’s successful R&D partnership with Yingli Green Energy Holding and the Energy Research Centre of the Netherlands (ECN).
He has been president of Amtech since March 2010, leading the company to record-breaking financial and operational results. Prior to being president of Amtech, Pentinga was managing director of Amtech Europe and general manager of Tempress Systems – Amtech’s solar subsidiary.
Retaining his position as chairman of the board, J.S. Whang commented, “We see the current environment as being favorable for expanding our technology and product portfolio and are focused on successful execution of our growth strategy. While I will assume the title of Executive Chairman, I will continue to share oversight of Amtech’s global operations.”
Pentinga said, “I look forward to the opportunities and challenges ahead of us and believe Amtech is well positioned to achieve its growth objectives.”
Last week the Street Wire reported Amtech as having hit a 52-week low in the stock market; it is hoped these strategic changes will maximize success in executing Amtech’s overall growth strategy.
