Karen joins from Hitachi Rail and is an accomplished leader, whose career spans different industry sectors. She has a strong focus on business improvement and accelerating growth, is passionate about equality, diversity and inclusion and has extensive experience in manufacturing, supply chain and customer service.

One of Karen’s outstanding achievements was to manage Hitachi Rail’s UK rapid growth from annual revenue of £248 million to £1.4 billion, and circa 3,000 people.

Of her new position, Karen said: “In a world where everyone has something to gain by living and working for a sustainable future, I am thrilled to be joining at this most crucial time.

“Baxi Heating has some of the best known and respected brands in the market, and people who are passionate and successful in delivering for customers. It is well placed to build on its core solutions with new sustainable technologies.

“I look forward to leading the business through the exciting next phase of its story,' she added.

Karen will replace David Pinder, who is retiring from Baxi Heating. David joined in September 2012 and has contributed greatly to the company. Perhaps his greatest legacy will be his vision of ‘One Business’, removing internal barriers to make it easier for people to do business with us.

David said: “I have very much enjoyed my time at Baxi Heating and there have been many highlights along the way, such as celebrating our 150th anniversary and developing the new hydrogen boiler.

“I am extremely proud of the way our people have built up the business with the right principles and the right values. Baxi Heating is in great shape, and I know I am leaving it in capable hands.”

Everyone at Baxi Heating wishes David all the best for the future.