By Patrick Avenell

Industry veteran Geoff Hannaford will be joining Groupe SEB as its new sales director for Australia on 19 July. Groupe SEB managing director Wivina Chaneliere confirmed this news this morning, saying she was very pleased to recruit someone with such a wealth of industry experience.

“Geoff has extensive experience in the electrical industry as he has worked for over 10 years with Panasonic in various senior sales and marketing roles and then for three years at Hitachi as its sales and marketing director,” Chanaliere said.

Hannaford was most recently the general manager of sales at booming retailer Jaycar.

“Geoff brings a sound knowledge in both sales and marketing, which is the way Groupe SEB operates, so he should fit in very well and will be a great asset to the Australian subsidiary, as we have ambitious growth plans ahead.”

Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter

Hannaford is replacing Claire Ferron, who has returned from maternity leave in a part time role as senior brand manager, electrical.

“I am very pleased to have been able to accommodate Claire’s wish to spend more time with her young child, yet still have an exciting job at SEB,” continued Chanaliere. “Claire has been working for the subsidiary for nine years and is a very valuable staff member. She has been a key driver for our growth and performance.”

Groupe SEB currently distributes the Tefal, Rowenta and Krups brands, amongst others, in the Australian market.