Ward replaces McBeth at helm of Avnet Abacus

Since the acquisition of Abacus in 2009, he has been at the helm of the Avnet Abacus and Avnet Silica businesses in the UK, with additional responsibility as regional vice president for Avnet Silica in Northern Europe.

For the past two years, he has also headed up Avnet Silica’s lighting business across EMEA, driving a significant increase in its footprint in key lighting markets.

Miguel Fernandez, president of Avnet Electronics Marketing EMEA, said: “Nigel brings excellent leadership skills to our executive team, and is a strong motivating force within the company. His strong experience at Avnet will ensure a seamless changeover of senior management at Avnet Abacus and secure the continued high levels of service to our customers and partners achieved under Graham. We wish both Graham and Nigel every success in their new roles.”

Ward is succeeded in his previous role by Chris Shipway, who has been with the company for almost 20 years serving as country director and most recently as marketing director for Avnet Silica UK and Ireland.