Guildford, UK – Philips is pleased to announce that, with effect from 1 September 2012, Neil Mesher, Managing Director, Consumer Lifestyle UK&I, will take over the role of Managing Director, Healthcare UK&I.  This follows the decision by John Atwill, Managing Director, Healthcare UK&I to retire from Philips as per 31 December 2012. 

John has been a key player in the success of Philips Healthcare over the past 23 years witnessing the expansion of products and solutions to secure its position as global leader in areas such as cardiac care, medical imaging and patient monitoring systems. This includes the development of healthcare technologies designed specifically for use within a patient’s own home as well as within the traditional hospital setting – from keeping fit and eating well to screening, diagnosing, treating and managing disease.

John said “I have really enjoyed working at Philips and have seen the healthcare business transform during my time here.  In an era where patients are becoming more like healthcare consumers and increasingly taking charge of their own personal health and wellbeing, Neil’s experience in the consumer sector will be invaluable in supporting healthcare professionals to adapt to the challenges this brings. I know I am leaving the business in good hands to begin a new chapter.”

Neil added "I look forward to joining the Philips Healthcare sector, a leading player in its field.  John has achieved tremendous results already and, while it is a different environment to the consumer side of the business, I look forward to bringing a new perspective to ensure we continue to grow our business in these challenging times.”

Peter Maskell, Chairman & Managing Director Philips UK&I commented “John has been a key part of our UK management team and will be much missed but we wish him all the best in retirement.  Having worked closely with Neil for many years, I am happy that we have found a strong leader for Healthcare within our own organisation."

With an engineering degree, Neil started his professional career with Esso and joined Philips Electronics UK in 1996.  Following a number of management roles within Philips Domestic Appliances & Personal Care (DAP) in the UK and mainland Europe, Neil became Managing Director for Philips Consumer Lifestyle UK & Ireland in 2008.  In the last few years he has played a pivotal role in re-shaping the Philips consumer business in the UK and Ireland focusing on those categories which are able to deliver strong, profitable growth.