Focus on core markets / Make even more targeted use of competitive advantages
Olaf Giesen (50) is taking over as CEO of EUROPART, Europe's leading distributor of commercial vehicle parts and workshop requirements, celebrating its 70th anniversary this year. He replaces Andreas Rode. Giesen has been with the company since the beginning of 2014 and has been responsible for sales in Germany, Austria and Switzerland (DACH). In addition, from 2017, he also managed the sales activities in Belgium, the Netherlands and Luxembourg.
Since 2014, Giesen has successfully strengthened and realigned the sales region Central Europe. Thus, this personnel decision reflects the strategic direction of the company. "Our goal will continue to think “European”, but we also want to consciously strengthen our core markets," explains Giesen.
In doing so, Giesen is explicitly focusing on the competitive advantages which EUROPART already has today. "The specialty about EUROPART - apart from the good availability of our goods - are the people who work for EUROPART," explains Giesen. "The expertise and know-how of our employees makes us special in dealing with our customers on the market. We will continue to strengthen and maintain this."
EUROPART has been successfully using a two-brand strategy for several years now. In addition to strong brands, they offer their customers the premium parts of their own brand. This path is to be continued in the anniversary year. "Our own brand in this quality and versatility is a unique selling point in the market, which we definitely want to expand further." Giesen is convinced "that we have taken the absolutely right course here".
Giesen previously held management positions at Hofmeister & Meincke, PV Automotive and Auto Teile Unger.
The head of sales for Central Europe with immediate effect will be Michael Vennemann (44), most recently Sales Manager West Germany. Previously, Vennemann worked for Albert Berner in a leading position in sales and marketing.