James Routh Moves from AB Dynamics to Victrex as New CEO
Company - People | Jul 08, 2025 | Business Cloud
Dr. James Routh, the current CEO of AB Dynamics, will transition from his role to become the CEO of Victrex, a global leader in high-performance polymer solutions, effective next year. This move follows a 12-month notice period at AB Dynamics. Routh is set to replace Jakob Sigurdsson, who is retiring after an eight-year tenure as CEO at Victrex. Routh brings over three decades of international experience in sectors such as transportation, aerospace, and defence to Victrex. Previously, he served as the group managing director of Diploma plc, a FTSE 100 listed company, for six years. His new journey with Victrex, a firm well-positioned in its end-markets, is anticipated to drive strong growth potential. Reflecting on his tenure at AB Dynamics, Routh expressed pride in their achievements and confidence in its future growth. Dick Elsy, chairman of AB Dynamics, acknowledged Routh’s contributions, emphasizing the company’s readiness to continue its ambitious growth plans. Intriguingly, AB Dynamics saw a rise in its share price following the announcement, while Victrex experienced a slight dip.
Sectors
- Manufacturing
- Polymer Solutions
- Aerospace and Defence
Geography
- United Kingdom – The events discussed in the article, including the change in leadership, involve UK-based companies and individuals.
Industry
- Manufacturing – The article discusses personnel changes within manufacturing firms focusing on companies like Victrex and AB Dynamics that produce high-performance materials and testing technology.
- Polymer Solutions – Victrex operates in the polymer solutions industry, emphasizing its focus on high-performance polymer products.
- Aerospace and Defence – Dr. James Routh has experience in aerospace and defense sectors, relevant for his new role at Victrex.
Financials
- 600,000 – Base salary for Dr. James Routh as incoming CEO of Victrex.
- 1,500p to 1,630p – AB Dynamics share price movement post-announcement of Routh’s departure.
- 783p to 724.8p – Victrex share price dip during the same period.
Participants
| Name | Role | Type | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| James Routh | Incoming CEO | People | The article focuses on his transition from CEO of AB Dynamics to CEO of Victrex. |
| Victrex | Employer/Target Company | Company | A global company specializing in high-performance polymer solutions, where Routh will take the helm as CEO. |
| AB Dynamics | Current Employer of James Routh | Company | A Bradford-on-Avon-based company known for designing and manufacturing advanced testing and measurement products. |
| Jakob Sigurdsson | Outgoing CEO | People | Retiring CEO of Victrex after eight years at the helm. |
| Dick Elsy | Chairman | People | Chairman of AB Dynamics, who acknowledges Dr. Routh's contributions. |