Simon Richmond is to leave Poggenpohl after more than eight years at the helm of the German group’s UK operations, to take up a new role at high-end appliance manufacturer Gaggenau.

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Richmond joined the German kitchen brand in 2007 as director of operations, having previously spent 14 years as an area director at Jewson builders' merchant. In December 2011, he was named as Neil Bailey’s successor as Managing Director of Poggenpohl UK.

Stephnie Judge Victorian Plumbing MD

In his LinkedIn profile, Richmond says the highlight of his time as MD has been overseeing ‘a change of staff culture… with all the team demonstrating a selfless approach to the overall growth of the business’.

A spokesperson for Gaggenau's parent company, BSH, said: ‘We are delighted to announce the appointment of Simon Richmond as Director, Gaggenau UK, taking over from Stephen Brownless.

‘Brownless has played a key role in the development and success of Gaggenau since 2012 and we sincerely thank him for his contributions during his tenure and wish him all the best for the future.

‘Starting on 1st May 2020, Richmond brings with him a wealth of experience from within the luxury kitchen channel and we look forward to welcoming him into the role.’

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According to two separate kitchen industry sources who spoke exclusively to kbbdaily Poggenpohl UK’s current Finance Director, Sharon Wallis, has been tipped to step into the role. Another Poggenpohl veteran, Wallis has been employed at the company since 2006. Wallis has been contacted for comment.

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