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Artificial intelligence (AI) company, Nightingale HQ, has appointed Ruth Kearney as its new chief executive as it looks to expand its operation overseas in the next 12 months.

The Cardiff-headquartered software company, which helps manufacturers digitise their operations, has seen significant growth in the manufacturing sector across the º£½ÇÊÓƵ, Ireland and Germany and now expects further partnerships across Europe in the next year.

Co-founder and former commercial director of the company, Ms Kearney has a strong business development background in innovation and technology.

She is currently developing these new European partnerships and plans to expand the company’s operations and build stronger links with manufacturing networks Made Smarter in the º£½ÇÊÓƵ, IDEAM in Ireland and EIT Manufacturing.

Ms Kearney said: “It’s a fantastic time to be at the helm of a technology company and there are many opportunities for collaboration and synergy in manufacturing. We have managed to expand during very challenging times and I’m optimistic about what lies ahead.”

She added: “We are a small team but we have grown a customer base across Europe and we will continue to scale this, building on our growing reputation for delivering quality solutions with demonstrable value. We are seeing increased demand for data integration and quick win automation projects that deliver a real ROI fast."

Steph Locke, co-founder and outgoing chief executive, will take on a new role as chairperson. She said: “Nightingale HQ has been a phenomenal company to create and grow. It’s on a path to success that will take it into strong services and product development within manufacturing.”

She added: “Growing the company during tough operating conditions these past few years has been no mean feat, but I believe Ruth will be the best person to implement company goals going forward. I will be taking on the chairperson role to support Ruth and build a Board that helps the company grow.”