Van Berkum, a chartered accountant and a well-known figure in the industry, began working for AFG in February 2006 as financial director with a growing involvement in the group's management. His remit is to continue the strategy and policy developed over recent years, while bringing his considerable corporate, financial and organisational experience to help the Group achieve its ambitions.
The group's strategy encompasses both regional growth and diversification of services to meet the demands of the evolving entertainment market. AFG's activities already include sales, rentals, distribution, R&D and manufacturing of sound, lighting, video and rigging.Karel de Piere says: "AFG has always grown by offering first class products, services and solutions at competitive prices through the efficiency and innovation of our skilled employees. The new developments will help that process continue."
Van Berkum added: "I am very excited by the current organisation and by the certainty that there is still a lot of room for improvement and growth. The AFG is already an international AV group and I feel honoured to lead the group forward with such a great team."
From October 1st the Ampco / Flashlight Group's board of directors will be: Dick van Berkum - managing director (CEO); Karel de Piere - commercial director (CCO); Fred Heuves - commercial director (CCO) rentals; Chiel Peters - financial director (CFO).
De Bruijn will remain with AFG until the end of 2007. He will be responsible for the formation of a new manufacturing division, specifically to develop and market innovations created within the groups' R&D wing, XLNT Advanced Technologies, such as CyberHoist / InMotion3D, Basscreator and Engineer.
Heuves says: "Eric, of course, has been a cornerstone of the business from the very beginning and his contribution to our growth and success has been incalculable. We are delighted that he will remain with us during the exciting and busy year ahead."
(Chris Henry)
