Poggenpohl revamps management team

German kitchen manufacturer Poggenpohl has announced a restructure of its management team in the year when it is also celebrating its 125th anniversary.

Managing director Thomas Kredatus (pictured) will rely on the newly formed team to “foster sales and distribution on an international level”.

Olaf Becker will assume responsibility for the company’s corporate studios as well as the dealer business in Europe, and will be responsible for the sales management in Germany, effective October 1.

Becker has more than 25 years’ experience in the retail distribution of luxury goods and has worked in various management positions for brands such as, Porsche Design, Karl Lagerfeld and Bally.

“We are delighted to have Olaf Becker on board and are excited to leverage his extensive sales management experience with luxury brands,” said Kredatus.

Alexander Stotz will become head of the multi-unit project business in Europe. The North American business is managed by Hans Henkes who has been on board since May 1, 2017.

The UK business continues to be led by Simon Richmond, while going forward, Bas Mol will focus on the export business in Asia and all other markets around the world.

Axel Lies, who has been with Poggenpohl for over 18 years, will assume the role of quality ambassador as of October 1.

“For this newly-created and somewhat innovative role, you need an experienced sales professional who is familiar with the kitchen, distribution and fine nuances of the selling process, and who can fully focus on this topic,” said Kredatus.

“Moving forward, Mr Lies will be an important interface between manufacturing and distribution. We want to be even more customer-focused and strengthen the company.”

Lies will report to Dirk Heimann, who joins Poggenpohl as head of quality management/lean production on October 1. Heimann has worked for over 20 years in the German automotive industry.

Kredatus concluded: “We made the decision to find a non-kitchen industry manager from an equally complex manufacturing environment. Our goal is to further optimise our processes and to establish a new standard for excellence. Top quality is one of the cornerstones for sustainable success as a luxury brand. Instead of relegating this to a task force, this effort will be a permanent part of our company.”

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