Rob Unwin has become managing director of Optichrome following the retirement of long standing managing director John Heywood. Heywood first became director of the Woking business in 1992.
Unwin has previously been commercial director of the family owned business, a role he has filled since 2006. He returned to the business in 2001 as production director having left to work for a design agency. He first worked for Optichrome as a van driver a holiday job in 1991, joining full time as an account manager in 1997.
Before then he had gained some experience at the family business, Unwin Brothers (then part of the Martins Print Group). This makes him the last of the Unwins in print.
“John’s are really big boots to fill,” he says, though at 53, he is unlikely to last as long in post.
Group managing director Natalie Stephens adds: “John was amazing for the business, leading it through my father’s death, then Brexit and Covid. Rob has been part of the management team for a long time and has been through it all as well.
“I’m excited for the future. We have a really good team and have grown in turnover and profitability last year.”
The first challenge Unwin faces is implementation of an updated MIS, which is underway. A small team will consider technology at Drupa, including developments in inkjet and in smart finishing systems. “It’s vital these days to find equipment that can be operated by those with fewer specialist skills and less experience but which can still do an excellent job,” he says.
“Over the years Optichrome has always been prepared to invest and to look to see what’s just around the corner.”
The business has also changed, moving into variable data and mailing, which has required investment in digital printing, and more recently into digital forms of communication alongside print. It continues to operate B2 and B1 litho presses as well as Ricoh digital presses.
“That ability to change has been part of the reason for Optichrome’s success over the years. We have always looked for new things, never resting on our laurels.
“And you have to have a clear plan otherwise you have no direction,” Unwin says. “It is a big honour to have been offered the chance to carry on where John left off. I’m really excited about the next years.”
