In a move to improve the performance of its European operations, Finnish pipe manufacturer Uponor (Vantaa; www.uponor.com) has implemented a new organisational structure based on function rather than the previous, partly geographical division of responsibilities. The re-organisation, which went into effect 1 April, is aimed at increasing the speed, agility and simplicity of the company’s European operations and the changes relate mainly to the Building Solutions – Europe segment, Uponor said.

The company recently announced a 63% year-on-year increase in operating profit to EUR 57.7m, on sales up marginally at EUR 811m in 2012 – see Plasteurope.com of 22.02.2013. However, the improvement was largely due to a strong resurgence in residential building in North America and a “resilient” German residential market.

Uponor's president and CEO, Jyri Luomakoski, said: “This change is a natural evolution and takes us forward in terms of driving synergies, yet maintaining the overall setup as it is. I trust it will enable us to put in new gear in succeeding in the ever-intensifying competition and the more volatile market environment.”

In detail, in the re-organisation of senior management, Heiko Folgmann has been appointed executive vice president, sales and marketing for Building Solutions – Europe. He also assumes responsibility for Uponor group brand management. He was previously responsible for the company’s indoor climate business group and sales and marketing in central and eastern Europe.

Fernando Roses has taken on the role of executive vice president, offering and supply chain for Building Solutions – Europe. He will also take responsibility for research and technology across the Uponor group as well as sustainability. He previously headed the plumbing business group and sales and marketing in northern and southwest Europe.

Sebastian Bondestam, formerly executive vice president, supply chain has been appointed executive vice president, infrastructure solutions. He will also continue to be responsible for group supply chain management and development. The senior managers involved will continue to be members of the Uponor executive committee. Robin Carlsson, until 1 April member of the executive committee and responsible for infrastructure solutions, has left the company. All the other existing members of the executive committee continue in their current roles.