New CEO appointed to bring research to market

Instrumentel Ltd, the spin-out company from the University of Leeds, appoints Steve Couchman as CEO to bring to market the techniques developed from their ground-breaking research in telemetry systems

Instrumentel Ltd, the spin-out company from the University of Leeds for Instrumenation, has appointed Steve Couchman as CEO to bring to market its ground-breaking research in telemetry systems for taking sensor measurements in harsh and difficult to access environments.

"Because our needs were unique, we were convinced we would not find an individual that had the breadth and depth of knowledge required to spearhead the future growth of Instrumentel.

We were therefore delighted when our executive search partner, Eseon, found Steve who has had an enviable and successful career in managing sensor companies," said Mike Bowes, the Instrumentel Non-Executive Director.

There are now no significant technical challenges to overcome with the product and with the appointment of the new CEO, Instrumentel is on course to be transformed from a research and development company into the pre-eminent world-wide supplier of miniature two-way telemetry systems to key 'Blue-chip' companies anxious to maintain their competitive edge in the markets they serve.

Of his appointment, Steve Couchman said: "I am proud to be part of this British company that is poised to lead the world in telemetry solutions.

Current research involves such diverse applications as taking real-time oral pH measurements for dental research without the use of batteries or wiring, whilst at the other end of the spectrum a contract has been secured for research and development into piston telemetry with a major Formula 1 motor racing team".

Instrumentel was incorporated in November 2001 and was initially funded by the White Rose Technology Seedcorn Fund (WRTSF), the GBP9 million venture capital fund owned by the Universities of Leeds, Sheffield and York.

The Fund invests in leading research with significant commercial potential and is managed by Aberdeen Murray Johnstone Private Equity.

The company's founder is Dr Greg Horler, a leading authority in telemetry systems.

To date, Instrumentel has concentrated on the final development of its technology, a battery-less and wireless tag and reader system that has been described as 'revolutionary' by industry experts.

The system is so advanced that it is believed that it will be a major contributor to the design of more efficient engines and fuels; will increase the lifetime of machines by monitoring wear and tear in previously inaccessible places; and will increase safety in wheel braking and tyre design.

This work is now close to completion, and there are no significant technical challenges to overcome.

The company is now poised for the next stage of its development to commence production of discrete systems and to incorporate the technology into a single chip, which will be the major requirement of its target customers.

The technology has applications in medical diagnostics for post surgery monitoring of recovery parameters in artificial joints and implants, and in areas or equipment where reduced contact to contaminated fluids, bacteria and viruses are needed.

Steve Couchman is a highly accomplished director with over 25 years experience in sales, marketing and developing customer-focused businesses in the production and distribution of sensors and electronic components.

He has held senior positions with Polaron, AMP, TRW and RS Components, and holds a BSc in Electronics and the IOD Diploma in Company Direction.

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