Dyson promotes Jim Rowan to chief executive, succeeding Max Conze, amid electric car plans
Dyson has installed a new boss in the driving seat as it embarks on ambitious plans to build its own electric car.
Operations chief Jim Rowan has been promoted to chief executive, replacing Max Conze who had led the British firm since 2011.
Sir James Dyson, founder of the technology empire of vacuums, hairdryers and more, said: "I would like to thank Max Conze for his great contribution to Dyson.
"We wish him well in his future ventures. Jim Rowan can now take over the reins in a smooth transition enabling us to take full advantage of his operational and technological skills as the company transitions to an exciting new phase in its development."
Prior to Dyson, Rowan was chief operating officer at Blackberry maker Research in Motion.
The tech company last month officially confirmed long rumoured plans that it is working on building an electric car with the ambitious goal of getting them on the road by 2020.
Rowan said: "Dyson is entering a very exciting period with the development of an electric vehicle and new battery technology.
"Coming from inside the business, I look forward to the challenge of continuing to develop great products which solve real problems for our customer and to the prospect of leading such a talented and unique group of individuals."
Turnover at Dyson Group grew 45 per cent in 206 to £2.5bn, its most recent accounts reveal.