Ideal Standard has announced that Dave Barber has decided to retire from his position as UK & Ireland MD in May, following 20 years with the company. Barber has held a number of finance leadership roles with the company, and has been instrumental in the strategic consolidation of Ideal Standard’s brands. This included the launch of the company’s design-led range, Atelier Collections, created in collaboration with renowned Italian studio Palomba Serafini Associati (PS+A) and its founder Roberto Palomba. He also led the introduction, across the UK and Ireland, of Singular – Ideal Standard’s new approach to specification.
Barber will be succeeded by Lisa Whitfield, who joins Ideal Standard from Interface, the worldwide commercial flooring company and global leader in sustainability. In her time at Interface, Whitfield has driven a number of key strategic initiatives to improve customer journey and experience, including development of the team. Prior to her role at Interface she spent 27 years at Newell Brands holding roles of increasing responsibility, including managing the UK writing business through a period of significant growth.
The announcement follows the launch of Ideal Standard’s sustainability report entitled ‘Together for a better future’, revealing its commitment to a more sustainable world. Whitfield is stepping into the role at a pivotal time, as the company sets out clear targets and its ESG commitments, and she will continue to push the company to challenge itself and implement changes that make a real difference.
Jan Peter Tewes, CEO at Ideal Standard International, said: “We are hugely grateful to Dave for his commitment to Ideal Standard for the past 20 years. His strong leadership and knowledge of our business have been invaluable in supporting our ongoing growth and ensuring we are in the strongest position for the future. Lisa brings a wealth of expertise to the role and we are looking forward to seeing the UK and Irish markets continue to thrive and succeed under her direction.”
