On to next Phase as chairman named

Mr Atherton co-founded nanotechnology firm Queensgate Instruments and was its managing director from 1988 until its sale for more than £200m in March 2000.

Phase Focus is behind the development of nanotech imaging and microscopy technology.

Meanwhile, Charles Holroyd has also been appointed as non-executive director. For the last three years Mr Holroyd has been group business development director of Oxford Instruments plc, a £350m turnover, London Stock Exchange-listed manufacturer of high-technology instrumentation, with responsibility for acquisitions, divestments and joint ventures.

Mr Atherton said Phase Focus “has already made some excellent progress”.

He added “I am very much looking forward to working with the team to build on these achievements.”