Grohe UK has announced that David Nicholls, the former MD of Dornbracht, will become the company’s leader for the UK & Ireland as part of LIXIL Europe, with Kate Hirst also joining the leadership team as leader of commercial B2B business in the UK.
Nicholls has an extensive career working within the built environment sector. Prior to his appointment at Grohe UK earlier this year, he worked as head of sales for flooring brand Headlam Group for three years. Before that, he also served as managing director of luxury KBB supplier Dornbracht UK between 2016 and 2022.
Meanwhile, Hirst is joining the company from Lecico Bathrooms, where she worked as its commercial director. Following her appointment, Grohe says she will steer the company’s strategy across multiple sales channels.
“I am proud to be joining GROHE at an exciting time for the UK & Ireland business,” Nicholls said, adding: “Fresh off the back of a strong activation at ISH 2025 in Frankfurt, and with an ambitious multi-channel road map for the year ahead, I will be focusing on supporting the brand’s vision to deliver a customer-first strategy.
“Having worked in the commercial interiors and retail sectors for more than 30 years, I feel very lucky to work with a brand that so confidently leads when it comes to product innovation.”
Earlier this year, Grohe also appointed Thomas Schachner as the new head of LIXIL Europe, with his role officially beginning back in April.
