B&Q owner Kingfisher announces change to supply chain leadership
B&Q owner Kingfisher has announced a change in the leadership of its offer and supply chain organisation with Arja Taaveniku being succeeded by Henri Solère.
Having joined the group three years ago as chief offer and supply chain officer, Taaveniku has led the development of a new single design, product development and buying organisation and devised plans for a unified supply chain.
Kingfisher said around half of all its products will have been unified by the year end and, as a result, Taaveniku has decided that the time is right for a change in the function’s leadership.
Véronique Laury, Kingfisher chief executive, said: “Arja has played an invaluable role in our transformation. We are on track against our targets for unified products and the new ranges are achieving improved sales and margins. Arja has our sincerest thanks and best wishes for the future.”
Having already led two of the group’s seven offer and supply chain categories, including the highly successful bathroom range, Solère has been appointed as Taaveniku’s successor.
Solère has worked for Kingfisher for the past 11 years during which time he has held a range of senior leadership roles.
Following the change, Taaveniku will remain with the group for six months to facilitate a smooth transition.
Laury said: “I am delighted to be able to appoint Henri. I have worked with him for over 15 years and am certain he has the right skills, knowledge and experience to lead the teams overseeing this next phase of developing unique product for our customers across all our categories.”
