Newport-based engineering firm Industrial Automation and Control has appointed Martin Zellweger to head its new division in the north east of England.

The move will see Martin, who has a vast experience gained in the UK steel industry, boosting systems integration firm IAC Ltd’s interests and operations in the key industrial areas of Newcastle, Sunderland and Middlesbrough.

Martin has worked in a variety of capacities over the past 25 years as systems, design and project engineers across a range of projects.

Originally from the north east Martin will be based at a new IAC ltd location in the region, possibly on Teesside.

Martin said: “I am delighted to have been chosen to head up this drive by IAC into an area I know well. I will use the experience and expertise gained in the industry in the area over the past 25 years to break new ground for this expanding, innovative and exiting systems integrating business.

“I have worked on many projects over the years including building the new rail plant at Scunthorpe, several projects at Scunthorpe BOS and Concast Plants, the Installation of down coilers and conveyor systems at Thrybergh Bar Mill at Rotherham, the installation of additional mill stands and a re heat furnace at Brinsworth Strip mill.

“I also worked on descaling and other smaller projects at Lackenby Beam Mill, various projects at Lackenby Coil Plate Mill. Most recently I was the Project Manager for the enhancement of the facility at Clydebridge Works in Scotland. During my time as Senior Project Engineer I also led the Teesside Projects Electrical Department.”

Industrial Automation and Control Ltd. is a multi award winning specialist electrical systems integrator operating in the UK and globally in metals, bulk materials handling, oil and gas, water, chemicals and numerous other industries. The firm which employs 98 people, including twenty overseas, operates globally and has an annual turnover of £8m. It has a business in South Africa and is working closely with contacts in China to establish an operation in the Far East.

Peter Lewis, managing director of IAC Ltd, said: “We are very pleased to have been able to attract someone as experienced and able as Martin to join the business at this exciting time for IAC Ltd.

“We are currently investigating our options in the North East. We have plans to purchase a small office and a manufacturing facility in the region. It will be one of Martin’s first tasks, as IAC Ltd divisional manager, to search out and arrange viewings at suitable locations.”

Martin was recently introduced to the IAC team when the company staged its biennial industry open day at the firm’s headquarters at Delta House, Queensway Meadows, Newport.