Mirka UK announces leadership transition

Mirka UK has confirmed that Managing Director Craig Daycock will retire at the end of 2026, bringing to a close a 40-year career with the surface finishing technology specialist.

To support the transition, Phil Sandford has taken on the interim role of Business Development Director before assuming the position of Managing Director in January 2027.

Craig Daycock joined Mirka UK in October 1986 as salesman for the Automotive Refinish Trade division covering the South of England and South Wales. Over the following four decades, he progressed through a number of senior leadership roles, including National Sales Manager and Sales Director, before being appointed Managing Director in 2010.

During his tenure, Craig oversaw a period of significant growth for the business and played a key role in strengthening Mirka UK’s position within the market. His leadership also included the development of the company’s Milton Keynes training centre and the expansion of its operations across multiple sectors.

Reflecting on his career, Craig 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 more than 20 years of experience with Mirka, having held positions across operational leadership, financial control, business transformation and international account management.

Phil joined the business in 2005 as Operations Manager and later took on the additional responsibility of company secretary. Since then, he has held a series of senior international roles, including Business Transformation Manager, Business Controller for Mirka Benelux and Head of International Key Accounts.

In his interim role, Phil will focus on strengthening Mirka UK’s market position, supporting the sales organisation and developing relationships with customers and industry partners ahead of the planned leadership transition in 2027.