Vacuum depositing systems developer Bühler Leybold Optics has appointed Steffen Runkel as director and head of its optics business unit. Runkel succeeds Klaus Herbig, who was appointed head of product management. Runkel joined the Bühlergroup last year and has more than 16 years of experience in the field of optical coatings. Prior to joining Bühler Leybold Optics, Runkel was at OptoTech, where he was responsible for its optical coatings business unit. He holds a Ph.D. in applied physics from J.W. Goethe University in Frankfurt, Germany. “From the beginning, I was impressed by the high standard of knowledge of the Bühler Leybold Optics team and the smart solutions of optical coatings,” Runkel said. “After a successful year 2017, I am excited to further strengthen the growth of Bühler Leybold Optics together with my team to develop new and innovative products for our customers. I am enjoying being part of the Bühler team, and I am particularly looking forward to the upcoming strategic challenges.” “We are extremely happy to welcome Steffen Runkel as a new member to our team,” said Antonio Requena, CEO and managing director of Bühler Leybold Optics. “I am convinced that he will successfully lead our business unit optics into the future.” The optics business unit at Bühler Leybold Optics supplies vacuum deposition equipment and services for the ophthalmic, precision optical, and 3D coating industry. Bühler Leybold Optics develops and produces systems for coating glasses and numerous other substrates with special thin films.