H&B announces new managing director

H&B merchant group have announced the appointment on a new managing director, alongside three further changes to its executive structure, effective this month.

Steve Parkins has been appointed managing director of H&B group and will provide the executive leadership required for the group as it continues to grow. Parkins joined H&B group earlier this year, moving on from his previous role of Procurement Director for CRH Europe Distribution.

Parkins said: “Since joining the H&B group I have been amazed by the amount of potential, mixed with a superb culture and spirit. I am really looking forward to leading the group through the next chapter in what will be a long history."

In another change, Nick Lander has been appointed chairman of the group, replacing Peter Buttle who held the role since the group's formation 21 years ago. Lander will chair the H&B board as well as help to provide strategic direction to the group. Lander joined H&B in 2015, and has 20 years of experience in the sector.

H&B group also announced that Mark Gilham is appointed finance director, and will join the group in December. Gilham has previously held senior positions within Grafton Merchanting, including the roles of senior finance manager and commercial accounting manager.

Peter Ces Agraso has been appointed category controller for the merchanting group, and has a career spanning over 20 years in the sector. During this time he has held senior category management roles in companies such as Staples, B&Q, Jewson, Grafton and Travis Perkins.