Coldham will drive the demand for TSSI’s hologram, WaterMark and security thread products for brand protection and document security in Central and South America.
Reporting directly to new general manager and sales director, John Barker, Coldham will be responsible for developing revenues in the region via direct sales as well as recruiting and appointing agents and representatives within the region’s security market.
TSSI has already established a joint venture in China, another key market for anti-counterfeit products, and is looking to form similar partnerships in Latin America with the help of the security expert.
Formerly at De La Rue, the commercial security printer and paper manufacturer, Coldham has 25 years experience in document security and printing products having specialised in banknotes, passports, ID projects, cheques and holograms. Along with his knowledge of the security market, Coldham is fluent in Spanish, French and Portuguese.
The illegal trade of counterfeit goods in Central and South America is a cause of great concern for governments, brand owners and consumers alike and is often used to fund organised crime. As a result, the demand for anti-counterfeit brand protection solutions is high on the agenda.
A recent report showed that pirated goods worth more than GB pound 88 million were seized in an operation by INTERPOL and the World Customs Organization (WCO) in South America in 2008, highlighting the extent of the situation.
“TSSI is a market leader in the fingerprint biometrics, document security and personal identity markets with success in China and beyond,” Coldham said.
“My aim is to promote the unique range of un-cloneable TSSI products and solutions to the Latin American security market and address growth opportunities.”
John Barker said: “Gerry’s previous experience proves that he is more than up to the challenge of leading sales in Central and South America and his fluency in Spanish and Portuguese will enable him to hit the ground running. With Gerry’s skills set, we will be able to command market share in a region of enormous growth potential.”
