Craig Daycock to retire from Mirka, new MD appointed

Following a successful 40-year career at Mirka UK, managing director Craig Daycock is set to retire at the end of 2026.

To support a smooth transition, ensure continuity for the business and provide stability for employees, customers and partners, Phil Sandford will assume the interim role of business development director, effective from 1st May and thereafter take over as managing director in January 2027.

For four decades, Mirka says Daycock has demonstrated “exemplary leadership, long-term commitment and unwavering loyalty, playing a pivotal role in shaping Mirka UK into the successful and highly respected organisation it is today”.

He joined Mirka on 1st October 1986 as the salesman responsible for the Automotive Refinish Trade division in the South of England and South Wales. In December 2000, Daycock was appointed as the national sales manager, all sectors, and in January 2008, he was then promoted to the position as sales director of Mirka UK. In October 2010, Daycock was again promoted to his current position of managing director of Mirka UK.

Daycock said: “I have enjoyed an incredible career with Mirka, which has seen the company’s significant growth and expansion into a world leader in surface finishing technology.

“I have overseen many challenges and significant achievements, including the development of our Milton Keynes training centre, and along the way I have made many friends.

“I would like to take this opportunity to thank my colleagues, customers and business partners for their support over the past 40 years and I wish everyone well for the future.”

Phil Sandford brings over 20 years of experience at Mirka, with a background spanning operational leadership, business development, financial control and global account management. He joined Mirka on 2nd January 2005 as operations manager and, in March 2008, was also appointed company secretary alongside his operational responsibilities.

In March 2017, Sandford took on the global role of business transformation manager. In January 2023, he became business controller for Mirka Benelux, and in January 2024 was promoted to head of international key accounts.

Mirka says his appointment as interim business development director “reflects both his deep understanding of the UK business and his strong contribution to Mirka’s international growth”.

In this role, Sandford will focus on continuing to strengthen Mirka’s market position across the UK and Ireland, supporting the sales organisation in meeting its targets, and developing relationships with key customers and industry partners.