Kentec executives appointed to drive global strategic direction at Hochiki Corporation’s International Business Division

Kevin Swann (managing director of Kentec) has been appointed global strategy director for the International Business Division. In this expanded role, Swann continues as managing director of Kentec and will also provide strategic leadership/guidance across product, market and operational initiatives, thereby ensuring global alignment and guiding the long-term direction of the Hochiki Group. Swann’s remit will encompass broader business strategic priorities such as market positioning, international growth and partnerships as appropriate.

Swann brings extensive experience from his seven years of leading Kentec, during which time he has overseen significant international expansion into markets including the Middle East, Africa and China and driven the successful factory/operations expansion in Dartford.

Initial team

In order to support the delivery of this global strategy, Swann will lead/guide an initial team comprising Kevin Mears, Thiago Andrade and Kendo Matsuura.

Kevin Mears is promoted to global product manager (EN) from his current position as head of product management at Kentec. Based in the UK and having spent over 25 years at the company, Mears brings deep technical knowledge and hands-on product experience.

Thiago Andrade, who has been appointed global product manager (UL), joins from Kidde Fenwal with a strong background in the UL markets in the USA and around the world. Andrade will be based in the US.

Kendo Matsuura, who is currently based in Japan, continues as global product manager for sensor design, bringing specialist expertise in Hochiki’s core detection technologies to the fore.

Unified global vision

The team will work collaboratively to align Hochiki’s product and technology strategies with evolving global market demands, in turn delivering solutions that reflect local requirements, while also supporting a unified global vision.

Junichi Uozumi, head of the International Business Division at Hochiki Corporation, commented: “Kevin Swann’s strategic oversight will be key to ensuring Hochiki’s long-term success in global markets. With the support of Kevin Mears, Thiago and Kendo, we are building a team that’s not only focused on product, but also on delivering the broader strategy needed to drive international growth and strengthen our global presence.”

This strategic initiative represents a significant step forward for the Hochiki Group companies as they work collaboratively to enhance global capabilities and reinforce the organisations’ commitment to long-term innovation, customer focus and international leadership.

*Further information is available online at www.kentec.co.uk