David Meyerowitz, the UK and Ireland chief operating officer of Haier Group Europe, has announced his plan to retire and leave the company on December 31, 2023.
Meyerowitz joined the Haier Group over 30 years ago in 1990 and served as its group sales director before going on to become CEO.
Under his tenure, Haier Group has seen four separate UK/Ireland mergers and acquisitions, and the brand has credited his clear vision and strategy with being instrumental to its sustainable growth.
Staff from Haier have paid tribute to Meyerowitz and his career following the announcement.
Jean Pascal Rey, Haier Europe’s chief commercial officer, said: “I would like to thank David for his long service and considerable contribution to the UK and Irish operations, where David has played a key role in the significant growth and success of the UK and Irish business over many years. We all would like to wish David a long and happy retirement when he leaves the company at the end of the year.”
Commenting on his legacy, Meyerowitz said: “I am filled with a profound sense of gratitude and nostalgia. This experience, which began so many years ago, has been nothing short of extraordinary. It has been a journey of growth, of learning, of overcoming challenges, and of forging life-long connections.
“My sincere thanks and appreciation goes to all my colleagues, mentors, customers, suppliers, press and community representatives, both past and present. Many of these have become close friends. Through their outstanding support, guidance, and camaraderie we have created some wonderful memories, conquered seemingly impossible challenges and enjoyed the celebration of so many remarkable successes together.
“Retirement from operational roles is not an end, but a new beginning. I am commencing some exciting opportunities in non-executive directorships, advisory, mentoring and coaching roles. This new chapter also allows me to spend more quality time with my wonderful wife Helen who has been by my side always offering her steadfast support, encouragement and understanding whilst providing a loving family foundation upon which to deliver my professional dreams. Now we can have more time with our loved ones and to embark on some adventures together that have long been put on hold.
“I am leaving the business in the capable hands of those that will continue the 1Vision journey to become the home appliances number one in the UK and Ireland. I have no doubt that the brands, customers, and colleagues will continue to deliver great success together in the future. I look forward to watching on and to meeting when our paths cross again. Meanwhile continue to Dream, Believe, Achieve.”
Although he is officially retiring at the end of December, from September 1 Meyerowitz will move to a strategic advisory role for the UK and Ireland markets. This will help facilitate the smooth transition of the role to his replacement, which Haier has announced to be Neil Tunstall.
Tunstall will be joining the Haier Europe team to serve as its new market leader and managing director for UK and Ireland, with his appointment also taking effect from September 1. He has worked previously at Jacuzzi as president for the EMEA, Asia and Australasia regions, as well as previously holding roles at both Whirlpool EMEA and Indesit Company.
Tunstall said: “I am delighted to join Haier UK and Ireland and continue the great work and vision set out by David. I am extremely excited to work with the leadership team to continue to execute the company’s five-year plan and carry on the great work by the team to drive profitability and business growth and the long-term success of the company.”