Kingfisher Appoints Gundel as CEO for Growth Phase

Kingfisher plc appointed Sebastian Gundel as chief executive officer on October 13, 2026, selecting the former OBI CEO to lead the home improvement retailer from February 1, 2027, as the company begins its next growth phase, according to Kingfisher.

Kingfisher said Gundel will join its Board of Directors on February 1, 2027. Thierry Garnier will remain CEO until December 31, 2026, while CFO Bhavesh Mistry will serve as interim CEO in January.

According to Kingfisher, Gundel has more than two decades of home improvement leadership experience and previously guided OBI through digital, customer and omnichannel transformation initiatives.

Kingfisher Chair Claudia Arney announced the board decision after a selection process that identified Gundel as the leader for the retailer's next stage.

"Following a thorough selection process, the Board is delighted to appoint Sebastian as Chief Executive Officer. Sebastian combines deep experience in home improvement retail and clear expertise in Kingfisher’s strategic growth drivers with a strong track record of innovation and operational delivery. He will build on the significant progress made under Thierry’s leadership while bringing fresh perspectives as we continue to evolve the business. Sebastian has the Board’s full support as he leads Kingfisher through its next phase of growth and value creation," said Claudia Arney, Chair.

The company said Gundel previously served as OBI's Chief Executive Officer after holding roles covering customer strategy, digital transformation, marketing and international operations.

Gundel said Kingfisher's brands, scale and strategy provide opportunities across several areas as the industry changes.

"It is a privilege to be appointed Chief Executive Officer 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. I am much looking forward to working with the team to build on those opportunities and create sustainable long-term value," said Sebastian Gundel, CEO Designate.

Gundel's background includes leading OBI's expansion of digital services and customer platforms. Kingfisher said his appointment supports its focus on trade, digital, marketplaces and services.

Garnier said he was proud of Kingfisher's achievements during his tenure and expressed confidence in the incoming CEO.

"It has been an honour to lead Kingfisher, and I am proud of what our teams have achieved together. 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," said Thierry Garnier, CEO.

Kingfisher said Claudia Arney will continue as Chair until the company's 2029 Annual General Meeting, providing continuity during the leadership transition.