SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA: Global semiconductor developer BluGlass Limited (ASX: BLG) advises President Jim Haden has been appointed Chief Executive Officer, effective immediately. Mr Haden joined BluGlass as President in September 2021.

As President, Mr Haden has brought BluGlass’ GaN laser technology to market, significantly improving laser performance and reliability to successfully launch its first suite of products and secure initial customer orders.

Jim Haden was instrumental in the acquisition of a purpose-built laser production fab, which is enabling BluGlass to vertically integrate its downstream manufacturing processes, expedite development and production, and improve laser quality while reducing manufacturing costs.

Mr Haden is an industry veteran with more than three decades’ laser expertise and a proven track record transitioning advanced technology businesses to profitable, high-growth commercial entities. He has held senior leadership positions at several of BluGlass’ potential customers and competitors, including Kyocera SLD, nLight, Coherent and JDS Uniphase (now Lumentum).

Commenting on the appointment BluGlass Chair James Walker said, “Jim’s technical expertise, industry network, and commercialisation know-how has been instrumental in transforming BluGlass from our R&D origins to a commercial provider of GaN lasers. Our technical and commercial progress since his appointment cannot be overstated.

We are now a genuine player in a fast-growing market with very few competitors and high barriers to entry. Our unique value proposition caters to our customers’ biggest challenges and feedback on our newly launched products has reaffirmed we have the right team and strategy in place to become a market leader. As CEO, Jim will have greater operational control across our three production facilities in Sydney, Silicon Valley, and Nashua and will be responsible for the continued transition to revenue generation and sustainability.”

BluGlass CEO Jim Haden said, “I’m incredibly proud of BluGlass’ achievements over the past 18 months and am honoured to be leading a highly talented and innovative team to commercialise truly disruptive laser technology, in rapidly growing markets. I’m looking forward to driving BluGlass’ continued growth and transformation, as we leverage our innovative product portfolio and deliver exceptional value for customers, shareholders, and our staff.”