By Chris Nicholls

MELBOURNE: Sampford IXL has made Malcolm Owens chief executive after less than three months as acting CEO.

The announcement, effective immediately, puts Owens in charge of handling the Gaggenau, Neff, IXL Appliances, Cannon, Jenn-Air, La Germania and Bertazzoni brands in Australia.

Owens started at IXL Appliances in 2000 and has 15 years electrical appliance industry experience. Sampford IXL said he was “instrumental” in the February 2007 merger between IXL Appliances and Sampford & Staff.

Owens said he was “thrilled” with the appointment.

‘My goal is for Sampford IXL to deliver sustainable, profitable growth while being an employer of choice. We will continue to streamline our direction to best meet the market needs while developing our people into a skilled, service-focussed team. By working hand-in-hand with our retailer partners we will become ever more relevant in the market.

“I look forward to working with our staff, customers and suppliers and am excited by the prospect of taking our excellent brands and outstanding reputation even further,” Owens said.