Mirka UK has announced a leadership transition as managing director Craig Daycock prepares to retire at the end of 2026, concluding a 40-year career with the firm. Phil Sandford will take over the role in January 2027.
To facilitate the handover, Sandford took on the interim position of business development director on 1 May 2026. This period is intended to provide continuity for employees, customers, and partners during the transition, the firm said.
Daycock joined Mirka on 1 October 1986 as a salesman for the Automotive Refinish Trade division. He moved through several leadership tiers, serving as national sales manager in 2000 and sales director in 2008, before his appointment to managing director in October 2010. During his tenure, he oversaw the development of the company’s training centre in Milton Keynes.
"I have seen the company’s growth and expansion into a leader in surface finishing technology," Daycock said. "I have overseen challenges and achievements, including the development of our Milton Keynes training centre. I thank my colleagues, customers, and business partners for their support over the past 40 years."
Phil Sandford enters the role with 20 years of experience at Mirka. He joined the company in 2005 as operations manager and was named company secretary in 2008. His previous roles include business transformation manager, business controller for Mirka Benelux, and most recently, head of international key accounts.
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