Atlas Copco India has appointed Frans Van Neikerk as the new Managing Director and Vice President India Holding, effective January 2020. Responsible for the company's operations in India and Bangladesh, he succeeds Giovanni Valent who is retiring after 25 years in the Atlas Copco Group.<p></p><p>A South African citizen, Niekerk has more than 20 years of experience within the Atlas Copco Group, most recently as Vice President of Southern Africa Holding. Before that he has held a variety of Business Control functions for the Mining and Rock Excavation Technique business area in South Africa, as well as in Southeast Asia, Chile and Sweden. </p><p>&quot;With his long and international experience, he is very suitable to contribute to our presence and development in the important Indian market,&quot; said<span style="font-weight: bold;"> Hans Ola Meyer, Senior Vice President Controlling and Finance and CFO.</span> </p><p> Commenting on his new role, Niekerk said, &quot;I am delighted to be appointed as Managing Director for Atlas Copco India and look forward to working with the team to grow the India market even further. We will continue serving our impressive portfolio of clients with the robust approach that Atlas Copco is known for, assuring a seamless delivery of our services.&quot;</p><p></p>