TWO new managing directors have been appointed for a Midlands firm to oversee major operations in Worcester and Tamworth.

JVM Castings, the largest aluminium pressure diecasting manufacturer in the UK, has appointed Ken Parker and Branislav Antal to joint managing director positions after a period of expansion, moving beyond the automotive sector into new markets such as construction.

The firm manufacture high quality aluminium diecastings for clients including Jaguar Land Rover, Bentley, Ford, Abacus Lighting and Hayter.

Mr Parker has worked in the automotive sector since 1983 when he joined Jaguar Cars. After working internationally, he settled back in the Midlands to begin his career with JVM.

Mr Antal's time with the company has seen him rise through the ranks, from project engineer up to quality director.

Wayne Murcott, group director, said: “While there have undoubtedly been some challenges for UK manufacturing since the Brexit vote, a weaker currency may lead to more production being re-shored back in the UK and we need to be responsive to these opportunities.

“Over the past few years, we’ve gone through a period of careful growth and expansion into new sectors, and the appointment of two new managing directors to head up operations and drive growth at each of our facilities will strengthen our future position.

"The success of the JVM Castings Group is dependent upon the recruitment and retention of highly skilled talent.

"Both Ken and Bran have demonstrated excellent knowledge of our markets and customers and we’re confident they’re the right people to take JVM Castings forward.”