Glasgow-based engineering firm Weir Group said chief operating officer Dean Jenkins would step down from its board on September 30 and his employment with the group will cease on December 31.

Weir said Jenkins wanted to spend more time with his family and be based in Australia.

Jenkins has agreed that for a transitional period he will continue to lead the group’s innovation, technology and safety strategies as he hands over his other responsibilities as COO to other executives.

Weir Group chairman Charles Berry said: “I would like to thank Dean for his hard work and commitment to The Weir Group over the last six years.

“In his time with the group, Dean has served with distinction as divisional managing director of the minerals and former power and industrial divisions and, latterly, as chief operating officer.”