Following over a decade as managing director of buying group KBBG, Bill Miller is set to step down, with Novy director Owain Harrison taking the role from January 1, 2025.

Incoming KBBG MD Owain Harrison

Currently global business and brand development director at Novy (part of Middleby Residential), Owain Harrison has over 20 years of industry experience in strategic growth and operational leadership.

He has been a part of the Novy team for over seven years, and prior to that held senior roles with Hoover Candy Group and Indesit Group, as well as serving as corporate chair at the Kbsa.

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Ahead of his appointment, Harrison commented: “I am delighted to be joining Der Kreis as managing director in the UK.

“With the KBBG’s commitment to empowering independent retailers and delivering exceptional quality, the organisation aligns perfectly with my passion for innovation in the kitchen and bathroom industry.

“I look forward to continuing the excellent work carried out by Bill Miller, together with Russell Sharpe, Neil Whitaker and Louisa Cole, leveraging our experience to strengthen the members’ market positions, drive growth, and enhance the customer experience.

“The need for independent retailers to maximise their margins and business relationships is more urgent than ever, and we will continue Bill’s work to drive excellence throughout the KBB industry.”

Outgoing KBBG MD Bill Miller

Bill Miller launched KBBG as the UK’s first independent buying group for the kitchen, bedroom, and bathroom industry and played a pivotal role in growing the organisation into a community for retailers, manufacturers, and service providers.

He helped co-ordinate an exclusive partnership with the Kbsa, promoting the KBBG and vice versa.

Reflecting on his tenure, Miller said: “It has been an absolute honour and pleasure supporting independent kitchen and bathroom retailers, it truly is a wonderful, resilient sector.

“Thank you to Der Kreis for giving me the opportunity to build the KBBG brand, it was a pivotal moment in my career, and I’m proud to say that we exceeded all expectations.

“Championing independent retailers and watching their businesses grow has been a real privilege.”

Miller also expressed confidence in his successor, as he stated “My position at the KBBG is being handed over to the most capable hands in Owain Harrison.

“Known for his strategic insight, Owain has consistently delivered exceptional results through brand building, market analysis, and executive relationship management. I wish him every success at KBBG and know that he will be an excellent addition to the team.”