Brooks financial chief resigns

Brooks Automation Inc., a chip manufacturing equipment and software maker, today said its chief financial officer resigned effective at the end of the year.

Robert Woodbury's departure comes amid a restructuring of the company's executive structure. Corporate Controller Richard Small will assume his duties on an interim basis, Brooks said. Woodbury also served as executive vice president.

Brooks also named Michael Pippins as group president of its new Automation Systems Group, which will combine its current Tool Automation and Synetics Systems divisions.

Pippins joined the company 15 years ago and most recently served as general manager of the Tool Automation Division.

Greg Marvell, currently general manager for the company's Synetics Systems division, will become chief operating officer for Automation Systems, Brooks said.

Additionally, Ralf Wuellner was named group president of the company's new Global Customer Operations Group. The group combines all of Brooks' sales, regional engineering, customer support and service activities.

Wuellner joined Brooks earlier this year from Lam Research Corp. and has served as president of Brooks' European operations.

Brooks shares rose 2 cents to $13.52 in morning trading. (AP)