March 12, 2008 -- Agfa Graphics today announced that Ruben Silva, previously regional sales manager, eastern region, Agfa Graphics, Canada, has been promoted to managing director, Agfa Graphics, Canada, effective March 1, 2008.

In his new role, Silva, who joined Agfa in May 2006, will be responsible for overseeing all sales and marketing activities in Canada, including the development and implementation of new programs and initiatives designed to meet current customers' needs and continue Agfa's growth in the Canadian provinces.

"Ruben has an impressive background in managing new opportunities for sales growth in many areas of the professional graphic communications industry, as well as a deep understanding of the hardware and consumables that drive our business," said Tom Saggiomo, president, Agfa Graphics, North America. "For the past two years at Agfa he has made an invaluable contribution to the eastern region of Canada as regional sales manager, and we are looking forward to seeing those skills used to further advance sales and marketing throughout Canada."

Silva has more than 20 years of experience in the graphic arts industry. Prior to joining Agfa, he held both technical and sales management positions at Presstek Canada, AB Dick, Itek Graphics and Gestetner. His areas of responsibility have included national supply and hardware sales and national sales and marketing.

Agfa Graphics, Canada has experienced tremendous success in 2007, especially in the area of environmentally sensitive printing plates. The chemistry-free :Azura and low-chemistry :Amigo plates have helped grow Agfa's CtP solutions in Canada. Growth in the areas of inkjet and software solutions have also contributed to this success.

Jack Baraczek, who has been serving as director of Agfa Graphics Canada for the past three years, is relocating back to the U.S. to head commercial sales for the eastern region.