German kitchen retailer Kutchenhaus has made two more strategic appointments to bolster its UK team as the brand continues to grow.

Maria Mayell joins the business as regional operations manager, and Curtis McCluskey joins as digital marketing manager. The two additions follow the introduction of James Slater as head of central operations, marking a significant start to 2024.

With an extensive background in the kitchen industry, Maria has held positions ranging from coaching and training kitchen designers to managing larger teams as a commercial operations manager, regional director and a national sales manager.

Her experience includes positions at Magnet Kitchens plus MFI and, in her last role over a period of 15 years, Maria played a critical part in the growth and success of Harvey Jones Kitchens as a regional manager, regional director and national sales manager until May 2022.

Maria’s new role will include supporting and expanding the fast-growing franchise partner network of Kutchenhaus, overseeing Southeast London and Kent.

She comments: “I feel privileged and excited to be part of a winning team and a company that is backed by the largest kitchen manufacturer in Europe, nobilia. My intrinsic motivator has always been to support the development of others, it’s something I’ve always enjoyed in my career.

“The job satisfaction you get from playing a vital part in an employee’s career progression and financial growth is huge, and it’s incredibly rewarding for myself. I will use my 30 years of kitchen experience to help franchise partners succeed with their businesses, ultimately helping to create a better financial future for them and their family.”

She continued: “From the moment I met the Kutchenhaus management team and franchise partners I was impressed by the positive culture and the weighted focus from the business on caring for their employees’ and partners’ welfare and success.

“I also love how, for a relatively small investment (compared to other kitchen franchise models), opening a Kutchenhaus showroom could be life changing for the right partner.

“ROI is possible within a year, with many existing franchise partners investing in their second and third showroom.”

Maria will use her industry knowledge to guide and support successful kitchen designers and investors to open and run their own showrooms with Kutchenhaus.

Curtis McCluskey (pictured above) also joins the business this month as digital marketing manager. Responsible for pay-per-click campaigns and a key website redesign project, as well as new brand ideas, Curtis will take a digital-first approach to marketing activity.   

With a strong background in both design and marketing, Curtis’ experience includes working for names such as Walker Sime, HSS Hire, Harrison Bathrooms, North Face UK and Snow + Rock. Throughout his career his roles have included Creative Services Manager, Head of Sales and Marketing, Lead Graphic Designer and Lead Visual Designer. 

Discussing his new position, Curtis commented: “The ambition of the business aligned with my own and meeting the team was an important aspect when taking on the new role. It’s clear to see everyone working to a common goal and the company has a family feel. I felt right at home the moment I stepped through the door.”

He continued: “I love being involved in anything creative, from digital activity to printed material, so this will be something I will push forward in my position as the brand continues to grow.”            

Kutchenhaus is a Trustpilot ‘Excellent’-rated business with more than 70 showrooms across the UK.

For more information and to locate your nearest showroom, visit: https://uk.kutchenhaus.com/store-finder