UK retailer Kingfisher has named Sebastian Gundel as its next CEO, with the appointment taking effect on 1 February 2027.
Gundel will succeed Thierry Garnier, who will remain CEO and a board member until 31 December 2026. Gundel will join Kingfisher’s board of directors on 1 February 2027.
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HEHe will take the helm at the London-listed retail group, which owns B&Q, Screwfix, Castorama, and Brico Dépôt, following more than two decades in the home improvement sector.
Commenting on his appointment, Gundel said: “It is a privilege to be appointed CEO of Kingfisher. I have long admired the strength and diversity of Kingfisher’s retail banners, its scale and its strategic ambition. The industry is evolving rapidly, creating significant opportunities across trade, digital, marketplaces, services and new customer propositions.”
Most recently, Gundel was CEO of DIY retailer OBI, where he led its shift towards an omnichannel approach focused on digital channels and customer experience.
Before becoming OBI’s CEO in 2022, Gundel worked as the company’s chief customer and digital officer from 2020.
His responsibilities included e-commerce, loyalty schemes, online marketplaces, and the development of offers for trade professionals.
He previously held operational, marketing, and corporate strategy roles.
Chief financial officer Bhavesh Mistry will become interim CEO for January 2027 to oversee the transition.
Chair Claudia Arney will continue in her role until the company’s 2029 annual general meeting.
Garnier added: “Sebastian brings deep sector expertise, a strong customer focus and a proven track record of performance. I am confident that he will successfully lead Kingfisher through its next chapter.”
In its latest half yearly financial update, issued last month, Kingfisher increased its FY26/27 guidance after statutory post-tax profit rose 22.6% to £290m ($385.7m) in the six months to 31 July 2026.
Statutory sales increased 0.8% to £6.86bn. Statutory pre-tax profit rose 18.4% to £400m, while adjusted pre-tax profit increased 9.9% year-on-year to £404m. Operating profit increased 17.6% to £449m.
