Highbourne Group has made two senior leadership appointments, with Rachel Baldwin joining as chief people officer and Mark Allsop as chief digital officer.
Rachel joins Highbourne Group with a background in strategic HR leadership, organisational development and change management from her previous roles at Pilgrim’s UK and Arriva.
Highbourne Group stated that under Rachel’s leadership it will build on its aim to create an environment where “team members feel welcomed, motivated, supported and empowered”. Rachel will also further develop the company’s focus on inclusivity, it noted.
Rachel said: “Our people are what set us apart. By creating an inclusive environment, we empower our teams to bring their best selves to work, innovate and succeed.”
Mark joins Highbourne Group to lead the digital strategy across all its brands. He has over 20 years experience working with multichannel businesses across retail and leisure sectors, including Currys and Merlin Entertainment.
Highbourne Group said its City Plumbing brand has made significant strides over the past year in improving its digital customer experience, including the launch of an enhanced website and customer-focused app, as well as the introduction of tools like FaultFinder and heatpumpkit.com.
The company said that Mark will support Highbourne Group in driving further advancements in the digital landscape as well as leading its online businesses, City Plumbing Online, Plumbworld and Underfloor Heating Store.
Mark added: “I’m thrilled to join Highbourne Group at such an exciting time. The industry is evolving and customers are demanding more and more innovative ways to trade with us in ways that help make them better businesses. By embracing new technologies and digital solutions, we can build on our work to date to improve the customer experience even further.”
Dave Evans, chief executive officer of Highbourne Group, said: “Having Mark and Rachel on board strengthens our leadership team and positions Highbourne Group to continue to deliver our growth agenda by better supporting colleagues and customers. Their expertise will be instrumental as we continue to innovate and deliver exceptional service across all our businesses.”