Sebastian Gundel to become Kingfisher’s new CEO

Sebastian Gundel, previously CEO of Obi, is to become the new head of Kingfisher. On 1 February 2027, he will take up the position of Chief Executive Officer, succeeding Thierry Garnier. Garnier will remain in post until 31 December 2026. CFO Bhavesh Mistry will serve as interim CEO.

Obi has announced that the departure is taking place by mutual agreement and with immediate effect. The process of filling the vacancy has already begun. Until a successor is appointed, the CEO’s responsibilities will be taken over by Miguel Müllenbach, Chief Financial Officer, and Jochen Ludwig, Chief Commercial Officer.

Sebastian Gundel, who holds a PhD in economics, had been at the helm of Germany’s second-largest DIY store operator for exactly four years, having succeeded Sergio Giroldi. He joined Obi in 2012 and had headed the digital and cross-channel unit, Obi Next, since 2017. Prior to becoming CEO, he…