Kingfisher appoints Sebastian Gundel as new CEO

(Sharecast News) - B&Q and Castorama owner Kingfisher said on Tuesday that it has appointed Sebastian Gundel as its new chief executive officer with effect from 1 February 2027. The company said Gundel brings more than two decades of leadership experience in the home improvement sector, including as CEO of European home improvement retailer OBI, where he led the company's evolution from traditional retail to a "digitally enabled, customer-centric, omnichannel business".

Prior to becoming CEO, Gundel served as chief customer & digital officer, leading OBI's omnichannel transformation and digital innovation agenda. Earlier in his career, he held operational leadership positions and a range of strategic roles across marketing, customer proposition and corporate development.

Gundel will succeed Thierry Garnier, who is leaving Kingfisher to become CEO of European supermarket chain Ahold Delhaize.

Chair Claudia Arney said: "Sebastian combines deep experience in home improvement retail and clear expertise in Kingfisher's strategic growth drivers with a strong track record of innovation and operational delivery.

"He will build on the significant progress made under Thierry's leadership while bringing fresh perspectives as we continue to evolve the business. Sebastian has the board's full support as he leads Kingfisher through its next phase of growth and value creation."

At 1010 BST, the shares were 1% higher at 322.30p.

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