Northern Irish bathroom manufacturer, Aqualla, incorporating Adamsez, has named Ruth Black as its new Managing Director (MD). From 1 September, Ruth will join the business, focusing on the strategic development of both the Aqualla brassware and Adamsez bath brands. Both companies are part of the FM Mattsson Group, a well-established and trusted international supplier of bathroom brassware and sanitary ware.
Following a successful launch into the UK market that saw the creation of a dedicated UK sales team and new additions to the product portfolio across both brands, Ruth joins Aqualla at a pivotal time and will be guiding the company forward as it seeks to grow within independent retailers across the country.
Ruth will be taking over from Steven Allaway, who has been leading Aqualla for the past 12 years. “It has been a privilege to start, help build and lead Aqualla within our industry. It has also been an honour to acquire the Adamsez brand three years ago and help re-establish this iconic brand throughout the UK and Ireland,” he commented. “Our company has much more opportunity for growth, and now is the time to make way for new leadership to realise that potential. I look forward to working with Ruth, who will continue to build on our foundations of a customer-centric business that truly values our team and prioritises our company culture.”
The business was searching for an inspirational leader to take on the role and Ruth’s experience within the KBB sector made her a natural fit. With over 30 years of experience in merchant-facing roles, Ruth has a strong understanding of how to successfully navigate the challenges faced by all business stakeholders from supplier and retailer through to the end-user.
Ruth said, “I am delighted to join Aqualla as Managing Director. It is a people-focused business that I have known and respected for many years as a customer and one that will be driven forward by the dedication and commitment of the people within it. I look forward to working alongside and supporting this wonderful team, as well as the wider FM Mattsson group, to deliver continued growth.
“I will be shadowing Steven for the next few months and listening carefully. There is a great responsibility to ensure we continue to support our customers, suppliers, and colleagues while we grow the Aqualla and Adamsez brands.”
Fredrik Skarp, Group CEO at FM Mattsson, will be supporting Ruth to ensure a smooth transition into the role. He added, “With Ruth, we have found the right skills and mindset to take the Aqualla and Adamsez businesses to the next level as leading bathroom brands in the United Kingdom and Ireland, together with all our dedicated team members, customers, and suppliers.”
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E: info@aquallabrassware.com
www.aquallabrassware.com
www.adamsez.com
