ArtiCAD founders Richard and Theresa Turner retire after more than 30 years

After more than 30 years at the helm of one of the KBB industry’s most respected software innovators, Richard Turner, MD, and Theresa Turner, marketing & HR director, have announced their retirement from ArtiCAD – the company they founded and nurtured from a small start-up into a trusted international brand.

Their departure marks the end of an era for ArtiCAD and the beginning of a new chapter under the leadership of Brandon Kwesiga, who joined the company in May 2025 as MD. His early appointment was planned to ensure a seamless transition, allowing ArtiCAD to continue its growth trajectory.

ArtiCAD’s story began in the late 1980s, when Hull-based computer games entrepreneur Richard Turner partnered with a kitchen and bathroom specialist to open a showroom business. The retail business needed design software to transform the sales process, to manage projects and to reduce costly remedial work. The existing design software at the time was far from user-friendly. Determined to change that, he brought together his gaming development team and KBB industry experts to create something better. ArtiCAD was founded in 1992. 

Richard Turner said: "It's been an incredible journey, thanks to great colleagues, great customers and ever-changing industry challenges. Harnessing the latest technology innovations and developing simple, practical and affordable solutions has been a real pleasure. Riding the storms of financial recessions and a world pandemic were less of a pleasure but I'm really proud of our resilience and what we've achieved." 

Theresa Turner said: "As we step away, our overwhelming emotions are of profound gratitude and pride in what ArtiCAD has achieved. I feel truly honoured to have worked alongside so many super-talented colleagues (past and present) - who have made building the business, with its many challenges, an absolute pleasure! There are too many customers, suppliers and industry supporters to thank in just a few sentences."

Incoming MD Brandon Kwesiga joins ArtiCAD with a track record of driving growth and innovation across leading brands. Most recently serving as director of sales & marketing at Anthill, a process management and automation platform, he brings a blend of commercial acumen, product insight, and customer experience expertise.

Brandon Kwesiga said: “I’m genuinely excited to be part of a company with such an incredible legacy, one built on innovation, integrity, and a deep commitment to excellence. It’s an honour to carry that legacy forward as we open ArtiCAD’s next chapter, continuing to deliver trusted, cost-effective solutions and local support that empower our customers to thrive.”