Optiva Strengthens Management Team to Focus on LCD Business - News Item

Optiva, Inc., the creator of a new class of nanomaterials for optical applications, announced today a key addition to its senior management team. The board has appointed Peter Hopper as chief executive officer (CEO) as the company focuses on the importance of the liquid crystal display (LCD) business in Asia to their immediate future. Hopper will oversee all aspects and product lines for Optiva strengthening introduction of their commercial products to key customers, partners and suppliers.

Hopper previously was the CEO of Philips Mobile Display Systems in Hong Kong where he successfully increased sales revenue to 1 billion Euros. He was responsible for sales of mobile displays to the Telecom, PDA and Automotive markets where he developed the capability to compete in color displays in all sectors gaining significant market share at key accounts. During his 28-year career with Philips, Hopper led a variety of businesses gaining market leadership against strong competition by focusing on multiple market sectors to obtain a strategic position in Asia. He has extensive experience with multinational businesses, having managed teams in Asia, the United States, Europe and South America.

"I am very excited to be joining Optiva at this stage in its development," said Hopper. "The LCD market continues to grow strongly and is an area where Optiva will play an increasingly important role. Add to that our growth opportunities in the nanotechnology field and we have a company with a great future."

"We are pleased to have Peter Hopper join our team as we prepare for Optiva's exciting growth with the introduction of commercial products into the liquid crystal display (LCD) market," said Alan Marty, board chairman for Optiva. "Hopper brings to Optiva extensive expertise in managing the intensely competitive components business in Asia. His experience in the development of multi-channel distribution and direct sales will provide leadership in shaping the company's strategic direction needed to grow our business."

Posted 27^th January 2004