Panasonic has announced the appointment of Simon Grantham as its new managing director for UK and Ireland, ahead of the company celebrating its 100 year anniversary in 2018.
Simon joins Panasonic from high-end domestic appliances manufacturer Miele, where he has led a successful period of growth for the business over the last 12 years as managing director for the UK and Ireland business.
Panasonic notes Simon’s ‘strong commercial background’ in consumer electronics and in particular a focus on premium brands and products. Simon also brings a deep understanding of the consumer’s changing needs in a very dynamic market, Panasonic says.
Simon’s early career spanned roles in sales and marketing, including times as sales director, commercial director and managing director of Tefal UK Ltd, a spell with Life Fitness PLC as managing director before he joined Groupe SEB, parent company for Tefal, Moulinex and Krups, as group managing director for UK and Ireland.
Hank Hatsuda has been acting managing director of Panasonic UK concurrently to his role as deputy managing director since September 2017. Following Simon’s arrival, he will focus on his role as PUK deputy managing director.
