New chief executive for B&Q

Kingfisher veteran and former Screwfix boss Graham Bell has been appointed as new chief executive of B&Q UK and Ireland, effective October 1.

He will replace Christian Mazauric, who will lead Kingfisher in France, succeeding Marc Tenart who, according to Kingfisher, is stepping down from his role.

Bell has worked with Kingfisher for 20 years, in roles including B&Q’s operations director and HR director.

He moved to Screwfix in 2006 where he led operations and property for 10 years before being appointed Screwfix chief executive in 2017.

At Screwfix, he led the expansion of the firm’s store network, opening 60 stores a year, on average, for the past five years.

Meanwhile, John Mewett, most recently the group’s digital director, will fill the top spot vacancy at Screwfix.

Véronique Laury, Kingfisher chief executive, said: “Christian, Graham and John are all highly experienced Kingfisher leaders who truly embody our ONE Kingfisher values.

“They are proven operators who are already playing instrumental roles in our transformation. I am delighted that we have the depth of talent to promote from within the company and therefore provide the continuity, stability and leadership for our colleagues while we continue our transformation journey.”

She added: “Marc Tenart has been a valued and respected colleague and leader. I would like to personally thank Marc for all the energy and diligence he has displayed in all that he has done.”

The reshuffle comes a month after the group released trading figures for its second quarter to the end of July.

Sales at B&Q UK and Ireland rose 3.9% to £1 billion and the firm said it was on track to grow full-year gross margin after clearance costs.

Kingfisher will report its first-half numbers on September 19.

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