Fiber provider NKT Photonics AS has appointed Don Riddell as COO, taking responsibility for the company’s three manufacturing sites. Riddell was previously the COO of Trumpf-owned SPI Lasers PLC. He has extensive experience in laser manufacturing, automation and supply chain management and has worked for Agilent Technologies, Bookham Technology and Marconi Optical Components Ltd.. Don holds a master’s degree in opto-electronics from the University of Strathclyde. “We are growing at a fast pace and the ramp-up of production is an important focus area for both us and our OEM customers,” said Basil Garabet, president and CEO of NKT Photonics. “We are delighted to be able to add the vast experience and laser manufacturing expertise that Don brings to our team ensuring our success.” NKT Photonics is a manufacturer of specialty optical fibers and advanced fiber lasers.