PWS
Expands National Sales Force
In
response to ongoing sales growth and continued expansion, PWS
has strengthened its external sales team with a number of new appointments
and promotions.
The appointments, which are spread nationwide, include: the promotion
of Paul Muller to National Key Accounts Manager; the promotion of Barry
Cox to Regional Sales Manager covering the south and Mark Phillips to
Regional Sales Manager with responsibility for the north; and Louise Briggs
who has been promoted from an internal sales role to Area Sales Manager
for Scotland. In addition, Chris Meadows has extended his responsibilities
to develop and manage sales across Northern and Southern Ireland. Further
appointments including a new Central Sales Manager are due to be announced
shortly.
Roy Stephenson, director at PWS comments: 'With these new appointments
and promotions we are further underlining our commitment to our expanding
customer base. We are ensuring our customers are at the forefront of our
minds in terms of product and service.'
Tel: 01325 505 555
Email: mailto:mail@pws.co.uk
Web: http://www.pws.co.uk
Daryl
Recruits for new Role of Technical Services Controller
Shower
manufacturer Daryl has recently appointed
Alan Archer into a new role as technical services controller.
Previously
a senior service engineer for H&K Equipment Ltd Alan, 35, has worked
in field-based installations and servicing with an emphasis on quality
improvement for 15 years.
Alan will now be responsible for ensuring the highest levels of customer
service and maintaining the quality standards associated with the Daryl
brand. He will also provide the bridge between market feedback and the
product development process.
Alan said: 'Daryl has an impressive reputation as a luxury shower manufacturer
and for providing its customers with the highest quality products and
levels of service. As this is a new role there is the opportunity to develop
our existing offer and I'm looking forward to the challenge of exceeding
customer expectations.'
The role was created in response to growing demands at Daryl and Alan
will be working with a nationwide team of nine engineers and installers.
He will oversee the supply and installation of displays for retailers
and manage installer training for private developers.
Alan will also be involved with development and provision of Daryl's bespoke
service, following a significant growth in demand for the service over
the last year.
William Hogg, Daryl's managing director, commented: 'Alan has a great
deal of technical expertise and an excellent customer service track-record
and we are delighted to welcome him to the company. We have built our
reputation in the industry through the quality of our products and the
levels of service we provide and we have created this new role because
of an increase in demand, particularly for our bespoke service.'
Tel: 0151 606 5000
Maytag UK appoints Area Sales Manager
Maytag
UK has appointed Philip Porter as Area Sales Manager for the central southern
region of England.
Philip joins Maytag from Panasonic where he held a similar position. Philip's
remit will be to continue the development of the Maytag brands and the
retailers in the central London area, Surrey and East and West Sussex.
Philip remarks, 'My background and experience provides a solid foundation
on which to contribute to Maytag's future, and to building the Maytag
family of brands. Maytag are a dynamic and focused company, that offer
a challenging role alongside a premium quallity and comprehensive product
range.'
Maytag's market is perpetually expanding and the appointment demonstrates
Maytag's commitment to optimise all levels of service and customer care.
Graham Gleave, National Sales Manager remarks, 'Philip is a key member
of our team and we are delighted to welcome him on board and offer him
the opportunity to develop his talents in the genuine American alppliance
sales arena.'
Planit
Strengthens UK Support Team
The kitchen industry software provider, Planit International has strengthened its national training and support team with two recent appointments.
Dax Bausola (left) and Tim Espin have been appointed as training and support
officers and join the existing team based at Planit's headquarters at
Ashford in Kent.
They will both join the dedicated support team that provides technical
support to customers on the Planit Helpline and will also be involved
in training both new and existing customers on the company's latest software
release, Planit Fusion.
'I am very excited about this role,' says Dax. 'It is a great time to
be joining Planit and I am looking forward to contributing to the success
roll out of Planit Fusion.'
'These are two great appointments for our team,' says Operations Manager
at Planit, Mike Hardman.
'With a background in data support operation and experience of account
management, Dax is well qualified to add to the existing skills within
the team and Tim has a great all round knowledge of IT that will prove
invaluable when training or assisting our customers with technical queries.'
Tel: 01233 649700
Email: mailto:sales@planit.com
Web: http://www.planit.com
Planit
Strengthens International Team
The kitchen industry software provider, Planit
International has strengthened its International Telemarketing
team with the recent appointment of a new International Telemarketing
Executive.
Nicole Smith joins the international team that develops existing and potential
international export sales. She has a strong background in sales and account
management, having most recently worked as a senior advertising executive
with a national newspaper.
'Nicole has a great track record of developing existing and potential
sales and will, I am sure, make a significant contribution to our international
export sales,' says Michelle Astle, Sales and Marketing Coordinator at
Planit International.
Nicole is based at Planit's headquarters at Ashford in Kent.
New
Marketing Manager takes Reins at Orama
Orama,
the independent manufacturer of worksurfaces for kitchens, bathrooms and
associated industries, has announced a new management appointment to its
team. The Company, which has recently invested heavily in research, into
equipment and into its personnel, makes this new appointment as it extends
the sales and marketing focus for its planned development of the business.
Sarah Brook joins Orama in the role of Marketing Manager, where she succeeds
Julian Annison who moves within the company. A skilled business and marketing
professional, Sarah joins Orama from Caradon Ideal, where she held the
position Channel Marketing Manager for the last two and a half years.
Prior to Caradon Ideal, Sarah worked for Rocol, IMI Yorkshire Fittings
Ltd and Lucas Aerospace.
Sarah who joined Orama on May 1st, will be reporting directly to Peter
Holt, Orama's Sales and Marketing Director. Her responsibilities will
include strategic leadership for the company as well as management of
Orama's commercial development activities, in support of the overall business
objectives.
Comments Sarah, 'I enjoy making a direct contribution wherever I work,
being a committed marketer by training. I have joined Orama because at
this stage in the company's plans I can make a real impact.'
In her role as marketing manager, Sarah explains, 'Having already worked
in the HVP and bathroom industries, it is a short learning curve for me
to move into worksurfaces. I look forward to working in the kitchen industry
at such a buoyant time.'
Based in Huddersfield, Sarah will be working at Orama's headquarters in
Somercotes, Derbyshire. Sarah has an MBA, Diploma in Marketing from the
CIM and a degree in Business Studies.
Tel: 01773 520560
Email: mailto:enquiries@orama.co.uk
Web: http://www.orama.co.uk
The
Man They Call...Mr Corner Fridge!
The
nametag has nothing to do with his size or shape, but his reputation for
developing and bringing to our attention the Corner Fridge and the man
in question is Irwen Martin of The Corner Fridge
Company.
Irwen
has spent the best part of two decades working in the refrigeration industry
and his history with the Corner Fridge goes back almost ten years to when
he was Managing Director of Norcool, the company responsible for the original
Corner Fridge concept. During his time with Norcool, Irwen introduced
the Corner Fridge to the UK, taking sales to unforeseen heights. Not content
with pure sales success, Irwin felt that the Corner Fridge could be further
developed and engineered. With that in mind, he left Norcool and set up
The Corner Fridge Company to do just that.
The Corner Fridge Company is now in its third year and claims an unrivalled
reputation for not only engineering and build quality, but also for the
levels of service the company provides. Rather than trusting an outside
organisation, The Corner Fridge Company has its own national installation
and service team. In the unlikely event that a breakdown occurs, the service
team provides an average response time of 24 hours.
Irwen comments: 'We think it's imperative that we place as much importance
on developing all aspects of our service as we do our products, since
we see this as instrumental in maintaining both our reputation as the
'Last Word' in Corner Fridges and for securing future sales growth'.
The Corner Fridge itself is a far cry from the original models. Still
offering a 1,300 litres of capacity on just one square metre of floor,
the latest incarnation has: all metal construction, five adjustable shelves
and four adjustable wall shelves, integrated or free standing options,
a large array of well thought out accessories and the availability of
a 5 year guarantee.
Irwen Martin is not a man to rest on his laurels. He continues to not
only develop further The Corner Fridge, but also to develop other ideas
that will increase the company's product portfolio, such as its 'Refrigerated
Poachers Pantry', previewed at the recent Ideal Homes Show. Future developments
might also see The Corner Fridge Company diversify into heating products
for the home, although at this point in time, these ideas are strictly
under wraps. But what about the name, surely you can't use 'The Corner
Fridge' brand on anything other than a Corner Fridge? Irwen has considered
this at length 'I don't see our name 'The Corner Fridge Company' as a
stumbling block, when introducing none refrigeration product lines to
the market place. Our brand is our most important asset, since it is fast
becoming synonymous with high levels of build quality and service'.
Tel: 0845 061 6622
Web: http://www.cornerfridge.com
New
Sales Director to Head Team at PJH Group
The
PJH Group has appointed Stephen Johnstone as new Sales Director for its
Hopkinsons Fourways division.
Stephen,
(37) joins the UK distributor of bathrooms, kitchens and appliances with
over 16 years experience in retail and manufacturing industries. Previously
holding the post as National Sales Manager at Siemens, Stephen has moved
his career swiftly since he began working as a Store Manager for both
Dixons and Currys in 1986, followed by roles of Area Sales Manager, National
Account Manager and Key Account Manager for AEG and Electrolux.
Commenting on his appointment at Hopkinsons Fourways, Stephen explained:
'I was attracted to join Hopkinsons Fourways for a number of reasons -
the company has drive and ambition with a team of professionals, from
Board to Floor level, well equipped to move forward and deliver. There
is also an enthusiastic atmosphere with a combination of years of experience
and innovative thinking.
'I believe my experience with the number one in electrical retailing and
appliance manufacturing will contribute to the continued success of the
number one in distribution.'
Responsible for Hopkinsons Fourways, the division of the PJH Group that
services independent retailers and merchants, Stephen heads a sales team
which includes four regional sales managers, 17 area sales managers and
one business development manager. He aims to continue in developing the
people and the business in offering customers superior class in service.
Stephen continued: 'No other distributor can rival the depth of support
we provide, in terms of sales, service and delivery. Although the Group
is the largest in the UK, it is always developing new initiatives - such
as the newly formed Kitchen Group - designed to focus on the four brands
of furniture. In such a competitive market there is no doubt that the
PJH Group will strengthen its hand and increase its market share in the
coming years.'
Tel: 01204 707070
Web: http://www.hopkinsonsfourways.co.uk
Steve
Saunders has joined In-toto as southern
area franchise manager. He comes to In-toto with considerable experience
in the kitchen industry having worked for Symphony for fifteen years,
latterly as key accounts manager. His responsibilities include advising
showrooms on product, administration and sales, communication and training.
In-toto's managing director John Kinder, is pleased to welcome Steve to
the company. 'In-toto showrooms are selling more kitchens than ever before
and with new openings planned this trend is likely to continue. Steve's
experience will allow him to serve the In-toto showrooms in his area particularly
well.'
Steve is 41, lives near Hitchin and is married with two girls. He is a
keen skier, being a race coach and plays golf.
Web: http://www.intoto.co.uk
Merloni
Elettrodomestici Organises for New Challenges
Andrea
Sasso has been appointed CCO and Giovanni Carlino is the new COO of Merloni
Elettrodomestici
After four years of record results, Merloni Elettrodomestici is facing
up to new challenges by streamlining its business organisation to become
more focused on the present market requirements.
Andrea Sasso, Chief Operating Officer until 18th April, was appointed
CCO (Chief Commercial Officer). He is now in charge of the Marketing Department,
Commercial area CSI, New Europe & Export, West European area and the
Consumer Care Department.
In his new function Sasso, 37 years old, reports directly to the Chief
executive Officer, Andrea Guerra.
Giovanni Carlino, 42 years old, has been appointed as COO (Chief Operating
Officer). Giovanni comes from the Boston Consulting Group, where he was
Vice-President and Director. He is now responsible for Information Technology,
Electronic Development, Purchasing Department, Logistics, Planning and
Control and the Quality Department.
The CEO (Chief Executive Officer) of all the activities in UK, the CFO
(Chief Financial Officer), the HR Director, and the four Directors of
the Cooking, Cooling, Washing and Dishwashing Business Units will all
report to the Chief executive Officer Andrea Guerra.
NKBA Director of Marketing Announced
The
National Kitchen & Bath Association has appointed Bill Schankel as
Director of Marketing.
Schankel has served NKBA for 3 years, most recently as Assistant Director
of Industry Relations. He has been responsible for developing and implementing
an industry relations plan to create partnerships, as well as managing
and developing marketing plans for the Center for Kitchen & Bath Foundation.
Says Schankel, 'I am very excited to begin in this exciting role. Marketing
our Association and its members to the consumers is a vital part of our
strategic plan and I look forward to working with our high calibre volunteer
leaders and our very professional staff to achieve the objectives set
out in that plan.'
NKBA is a non-profit trade association of more than 24,000 members that
has educated and led the kitchen and bath industry in the USA and is celebrating
40 years of service this year.
Web: http://www.nkba.org
Jacuzzi Inc. Announces Appointment Of Kent Baker As President, Jacuzzi Whirlpool Bath
Don
Devine, president, chairman and CEO of Jacuzzi Inc., recently announced
the appointment of E. Kent Baker as president, Jacuzzi Whirlpool Bath.
In the leadership post for Jacuzzi Whirlpool Bath, Baker will oversee
the North American operations of Jacuzzi® brand product lines including
whirlpool baths, luxury showers, and vitreous china.
Baker was most recently Chairman of Newton Manufacturing and President
of Pella Plastics. Prior to his position with Newton Manufacturing, Baker
was part of the management team at the Maytag Corporation for over 20
years, where he gained an expertise in sales and marketing, product innovation,
manufacturing, logistics and purchasing.
'I am pleased to welcome Kent to the top post for Jacuzzi Whirlpool Bath,'
stated Don Devine. 'Kent’s invaluable experience in manufacturing
and consumer products will provide the leadership necessary to maintain
Jacuzzi’s reputation for innovation and excellence in the industry.'
'Jacuzzi is a strong brand with an excellent heritage,' said Kent Baker.
'I feel privileged to have the opportunity to lead the team that will
elevate Jacuzzi to a new level.'
Baker received his Bachelors of Science degree in Economics from Kansas
State University.
Orama snaps up Design Award Winner
Orama
Fabrications has appointed Jonathan Rylands, who was the kitchen industry
winner at the 2002 New Designers Awards. Rylands, aged 21 won the coveted
first prize at a glittering presentation held at the Design Centre Islington,
where he was presented with the accolade by design guru Sir Terence Conran.
Jonathan's
award winning Mimis Breakfast Bar Fridge brought him to the attention
of the kitchen industry.The owner of a Bachelor of Product Design, Jonathan
will be working in Orama's design team to develop new thinking on worksurfaces.
Orama Sales & Marketing Director Peter Holt says 'We were impressed
by Jonathan's creative approach and enthusiasm, and are thrilled that
Orama will be able to benefit from both as well as provide Jonathan with
a real life outlet for his work. Orama is undergoing considerable development
following the management changes earlier this year, and the company is
exploring all avenues of future growth. Key to our success not just as
a company but as an industry will be our ability to think 'outside the
box' and inspire the consumer with new ideas. Creative designers like
Jonathan are fundamental to the achievement of this objective'.
Jonathan comes from Liverpool and lists football and skiing as his interests
outside of work.
Electrolux
Appoints New Built-in Category Director
Helen
Muir, 43, has been appointed category director for kitchen systems at
Electrolux's headquarters in Slough.
She will be responsible for the company's built-in products across three
of its brands, AEG, Zanussi and Electrolux. Prior to the appointment,
Helen worked as category director for freestanding for the Electrolux
Group.
Helen has been with the Group for twenty years, living in France, Italy
and Sweden as well as the UK and brings experience from both the commercial
and product development side of Electrolux's business.
Web: http://www.electrolux.co.uk
A Well Known Face Joins Pozzani
Mike
Pickavance has joined Pozzani Pure Water plc in the role of Sales and
Marketing Director. Well-known and respected in the wider water treatment
industry, Mike will be responsible for business development, building
its product portfolio, introducing new products to support established
ones and seeking out new niche markets for the company to exploit. He
will also be looking to build awareness of the company and raise its profile
in its target markets.
'I have known the managing director for some time and after talking for
a while, joining Pozzani became a natural next move for me,' he said.
'It's a company with terrific potential and it will be my responsibility
to turn potential into reality.'
MD Steve Malloney is pleased to welcome Mike to the company: 'He brings
a wealth of relevant experience and contacts to the company and he has
exciting ideas for the future. We feel Pozzani is ready to take a giant
step forward and with Mike on board, that is more likely to happen.'
For further information, please contact: Mike Pickavance, Pozzani - 07833
194730
Stoves Appoints New Area Sales Manager For South West And South Wales
British
cooker manufacturer, Stoves increases its support for local retailers
with the appointment of a new area sales manager for the South West of
England and South Wales. Juliet Skelton joins an eleven strong sales management
team, reporting directly to sales field manager, Scott Harwood.
Working
across the Stoves and New World brands, Juliet’s remit is to strengthen
existing relationships with kitchen specialist and independent domestic
appliance retailers. Her responsibilities include supporting the retailer
to ensure they are up-to-date with the latest products and promotions,
merchandising, staff training methods and consumer trends.
Juliet commented, 'One of my main objectives will be to increase retailers’
awareness of the substantial investment Stoves has made to the customer
care operation. The marked improvements in our service and parts centre
and the websites, will help to improve retailers’ confidence and
in turn, increase sales.'
Juliet joins Stoves with significant market experience from her role as
area support manager with Rangemaster where she was responsible for new
product introductions, staff training on sales opportunities and merchandising.
In the last twelve months, Stoves has undergone a multi-million pound
factory refit. The Call Centre has been completely overhauled and the
Customer Parts Centre reorganised whilst, in May a new customer care director
was appointed to oversee the effective running of the customer help desk,
parts centre and engineers in the field. As a result, all calls are now
answered in just fives seconds, and spare parts picked, packed and dispatched
within 24 hours.
Email: mailto:tara.holt@stoves.co.uk