3D Systems has appointed Vyomesh ‘VJ’ Joshi, a former Hewlett-Packard executive vice president as its new president and CEO. Joshi succeeds Andy Johnson, who took temporary charge of the company following the departure of long-term president and CEO Avi Reichental in October 2015.
On October 28, 2015, Avi Reichental stood down after 12 years at the helm of 3D Systems. Thereafter, Andy Johnson, the company’s chief legal officer, became acting president and CEO. Half a year later, 3D Systems has appointed Reichental’s permanent successor, Vyomesh ‘VJ’ Joshi.
Joshi was born and brought up in India. He did his bachelor’s degree from L.D. College of Engineering, Ahmedabad, India. He holds a master’s degree in electrical engineering from Ohio State University. Joshi served as executive vice president of Hewlett-Packard between 1980 and 2012. During his long tenure at HP, Joshi oversaw the development of printing, scanning and digital camera technologies and helped double the company’s profits during a 11-year period. On March 21, 2012 it was announced that HP will lump printers and PCs division together and that Joshi would retire, ending a 32 year career with HP. After showing his mettle in the 2D printing market for 32 years, Joshi must now prove himself in 3D printing industry’s most high-profile vacancy.
“I am incredibly excited about the future of 3D Systems,” said Joshi. “We have a tremendous opportunity to help customers take advantage of the era of manufacturing transformation, including mass customization. While the company has a strong history in place, it is clear that we need to develop new and innovative products with unprecedented quality and service levels to drive sustainable growth and profits.”
Despite discontinuing the Cube 3D printer and closing the associated Cubify marketplace at the end of last year, 3D Systems has continued to develop new products and projects, such as the ProX DMP 320 direct metal 3D printer and a state-of-the-art Healthcare Technology Center in Littleton, Colorado. The 3D Systems board appears confident that, under Joshi’s leadership, the company can continue to make progress and regain its strong position it had two years ago.
“We are pleased to announce VJ’s appointment as President and CEO of 3D Systems,” said Wally Loewenbaum, Chairman of the 3D Systems Board of Directors. “VJ’s significant experience scaling and strengthening technology-driven businesses, his expertise in product development and innovation, and his proven track record of operational excellence make him the ideal candidate to lead our company into its next era.”
Interim CEO Andy Johnson will continue serving as executive VP and chief legal officer.