NATICK, MA – Cognex has promoted Robert Willett to CEO.

Willett was previously the firm’s president and chief operating officer, with management responsibility for sales, marketing, product development and operations.

As CEO, he also is now responsible for the company’s global finance and administration functions.

He will continue to report to Dr. Robert J. Shillman, who remains chairman of the board and has taken on the role of chief culture officer.

SAN JERONIMO, MEXICO – Foxconn plans to consolidate its North American operations at its 1.6 million sq. ft. manufacturing plant here, according to published reports.

The facility currently includes 400,000 sq. ft. of additional manufacturing space. Foxconn owns 240 hectares in the city.

Foxconn reportedly wants some of its China customers to relocate to Mexico after the real estate market improves.

The decision to consolidate operations in San Jeronimo came as a result of its closeness to important markets in the US, the firm says, in addition to an accessible labor pool in Juárez.

The plant employees 5,500 staff, who can produce up to 50,000 computers daily.

Construction of a facility not owned by the electronics manufacturer has reportedly begun next to the Foxconn factory, which is expected to aid in further industrial growth in the region.