After 25 years at Prima Dental Group and 20 years as managing director, Richard Muller is taking on a new role as executive chairman, with a focus on future strategy.

Prima Dental, based at Waterwells Business Park in Quedgeley, has grown from a small player to become the world's leading manufacturer of carbide burs for the dental profession, used to shape and smooth in dentistry. The company has received two Queens Awards for Enterprise along the way, as well as establishing joint ventures and subsidiaries in Asia and South America.

Alun Jones, current finance director, will assume the role as managing director, aiming to take Prima Dental to the next level.

Alun and Richard have worked closely for many years, and it was their collaboration that delivered the successful partnerships that Prima Dental enjoy today in Brazil, China, Hong Kong and India.

Richard said: "The opportunity to grow the business with the support of energetic and enthusiastic owners has been a fantastic and unique opportunity that I have thoroughly enjoyed. With a great workforce we have achieved consistent success on a world stage of which the whole Prima team are very proud."

Incoming managing director Alun Jones said: "I'm honoured and delighted to be taking over the leadership of such a strong and well-respected business. During the last eight years, I have enjoyed being part of the Prima team that has delivered significant growth under Richard's direction.

"The business has huge potential, and I am confident that with the continued support of all involved in the business, we will continue to grow and achieve even greater success over the coming years."