Sharp's David Woodward Addresses Innovation Forum

David Woodward, President of Sharp Microelectronics Europe (SME) presented his goal to expand Sharp's components business in Europe and to at least double the turnover by the middle of the decade. Since October 2001 Woodward has been responsible for the global account business of SME, first as Manager and since October 2004 as Vice President Sales. In this position he was also responsible for all sales activities of the European components subsidiary of Sharp. Sharp is one of the leading LCD manufacturers with a broad display portfolio ranging from 1.5" system LCDs right on up to 108" LCDs. The company is in development and serial production of key technologies such as the world's first dual directional & triple directional viewing LCD and has a worldwide leading position in camera modules for mobile phones with a broad portfolio of CCD and CMOS cameras / sensors with up to 12MP resolution and for over 15 years has been a worldwide leading manufacturer of opto electronic components. New strategy for Europe David is driving ahead with a diversified approach with a focus on growth markets with a balanced product and solution based portfolio for stability and growth. The company will be identifying and addressing new markets to enhance business growth and transitioning its organisation for optimized market service by enhancing its partnership and broadening its communication programs. Lead business growth into new market / application areas by promoting technologies for the needs of the new low carbon society into market segments as:

• Home Energy Management Systems (HEMS)
• Lighting devices, Solar components
• Expand geographically into new areas

Target applications:

• Smart meters
• Indoor energy monitors
• LED lighting
• Many types of sensor,
• Energy harvesting devices
• Security cameras
• White goods

In these applications the company is well-placed with its broad portfolio of LED, LCD, Memory LCD, Sensors, Solar module, PCI, RF communication device technologies. Through its established business partnerships and proven communications capability, the company will step up its support for partners' CRM and marketing activities with a stronger commitment to coordination of vital marketing communication activities. David concluded that the changes in business environment will require change in business strategy and organisation to remain competitive and his goal is to use closer cooperation and communication with partners to gain a deeper understanding of end customers' needs enabling Sharp to provide optimised customer solutions and to fully utilise the company's robust communications channels to grow the company's presence and awareness. www.sharpsme.com