As the immersive technology market changes so companies seek to adapt, either externally or internally. Some will seek investment, others will instigate growth through a merger or takeover of another firm. Potentially for the benefit of adding more skills and/or products to their business. Others will expand their operations with new staff and services. For WaveOptics, the UK-based designer and manufacturer of diffractive waveguides, which are a key optical component in augmented reality (AR) wearable devices, such as smart glasses. The team has again chosen to strengthen its internal team with new hires.
At the end of last year, WaveOptics took on David Hayes – the former Executive Vice President of Enterprise-focused smart glasses manufacturer DAQRI as their CEO. Now the firm has taken on a new Operations Director and Chief Technical Officer (CTO), Gary Spencer and Phil Greenhalgh respectively.
Greenhalgh is also a former DAQRI employee, and was previously the leader of the AR hardware engineering team. While Spencer is a 25-year veteran of the technology sector spanning a number of key roles in multinational companies.
“As CTO, Phil Greenhalgh will be responsible for research and development, driving forwards the focus on material sciences, and developing waveguides and projector systems with higher fields of view.” Says WaveOptics in a statement. “Gary Spencer, who joins as Operations Director, will be responsible for all aspects of our Operations, as WaveOptics expands its manufacturing capabilities across Europe and Asia.”
“These two senior appointments strengthen our management team and also are a clear demonstration of our rapid growth and international development.” Adds Hayes on the new hires. “Both Phil and Gary bring considerable technical and manufacturing experience, as well
as in-depth AR expertise. They will be key members of the team as we position the business to take advantage of the numerous opportunities in the rapidly developing and expanding AR market.”
WaveOptics were the recipient of a £12 million (GBP) investment back in July 2017 which has seen the company continue to develop its AR portfolio. Including a new modual program back in January. For more recent AR related news from VRFocus click here.