Wolseley appoints Steve Ashmore to lead UK business

Wolseley, a specialist trade distributor of plumbing and heating products, announced that, Steve Ashmore has been appointed as UK Managing Director with effect from 10 May 2010.

Steve has been Managing Director of Wolseley’s UK Heavyside businesses of Build Center, Drain Center, Brandon Hire and Encon. Between 2007 and 2008, he was Managing Director of the UK Lightside businesses of Plumb Center, Parts Center, Unifix and BCG. He joined Wolseley in October 2005 as UK Brand Development Director.

Steve will join Wolseley’s Executive Committee and will report to Ian Meakins, Wolseley plc Chief Executive. In addition to his new role, in the short term Steve will continue to manage the UK Heavyside operations until a successor is appointed.

Commenting on the appointment, Ian Meakins, Wolseley plc Chief Executive, said:

"Steve brings a wealth of sector and international experience, having undertaken a number of leadership roles both within Wolseley but also with Exel, working with leading international brands running their logistics and supply chain activities. His track record on improvement of business performance, which most recently includes improving the performance of the Heavyside division, is impressive and we are delighted to welcome him as UK Managing Director.”