Schneider Electric, the pioneer in digital transformation of energy management and automation, announces the appointment of Nico van der Merwe as VP of Home and Distribution for the UK and Ireland. His role will cover the Schneider Electric Residential Channels and Distribution network and partners.
For the past three years, Nico has been in charge of Schneider Electric’s Channel Development for Europe, playing a vital role in formulating and strategic transformational projects. Nico brings his ability to create high performing teams, enable business transformation and encourage entrepreneurial thinking to his new role.
Energy management solutions
He will report directly into Mike Hughes, Zone President, Schneider Electric UK and Ireland. Nico has worked for Schneider Electric since 2008. Now based in London, Nico’s appointment comes at an exciting time for the Home and Distribution division. UK homes are becoming increasingly connected and the spotlight on the inefficiencies of UK housing stock are becoming a greater focus in the battle to halt climate change.
Nico will be responsible for ensuring that Schneider Electric’s portfolio of smart devices, sensors and energy management solutions are front of mind with electricians, home builders and contractors. A core focus for the division short-term will see Nico helping the Home and Distribution team to build a strong pipeline for its flagship, Acti 9 range and the new Acti 9 Isobar P solution.
Connectivity and greater efficiency
We have a fantastic range of products and solutions here at Schneider Electric that address key industry trends"
Offering 50% installation time savings, the new product provides Schneider Electric customers with enhanced levels of protection, increased reliability, connectivity and greater efficiency. "Nico’s extensive experience and expertise within Schneider Electric makes him perfectly placed to drive the Home and Distribution division and ensure we capitalize on the opportunity ahead.”
“We have a fantastic range of products and solutions here at Schneider Electric that address key industry trends and challenges including increased connectivity, IoT and energy management. As a business we are constantly bringing new innovations to market, such as Acti 9 Isobar P. It is a great time to join the team," said Mike Hughes, Zone President, Schneider Electric UK and Ireland.
Building great teams
Nico van der Merwe added “I feel as though I have come home in my return to the distribution side of the Schneider business. I look forward to liaising directly with customers and partners and helping continue our journey of growth. I have a clear vision of what I want to achieve and exciting goals for my new role.”
“I am keen to start shaping the future development and growth of the Home and Distribution business across the UK and Ireland. For me, the most important thing, will be to build a strong team to help me achieve our ambitious goals for the division. At Schneider we believe in building great teams – and we must work to achieve excellence and maximize the growing demand for smarter homes.”
