The 49-year-old business graduate has many years of experience in the field of communications having worked for both client companies and agencies.

Dirk Eisenmann was most recently the head of marketing for HIMA, a group of companies providing automated safety solutions worldwide. While there, he gained extensive experience in a wide variety of industries.

Christian Dieffenbacher, the board member responsible for the marketing division stated: "In the last few years, Dieffenbacher has substantiated its claim to be a global leader with numerous new developments in the wood sector, but also with innovative solutions for lightweight automotive construction and for recycling facilities."

He added: "With his experience, Dirk Eisenmann will help us continue to strategically develop the communications sector to more thoroughly convey our position of leadership and the associated benefits for our customers."

Dirk Eisenmann takes over responsibility for marketing, press and public relations from Roger Kautz, who is leaving the company.