UK: Bob Cowlard is to be the new managing director of Carel UK, the UK arm of the leading Italian humidification and controls manufacturer. He joins the Chessington-based company on June 3, replacing Enrico Mirandola who has taken up a role at Carel's hq in Padova.
Well-known in the air conditioning industry, Bob brings considerable experience to his new role. With a solid sales background in air conditioning distribution, he was appointed by Sanyo in 2005 to spearhead the launch of its air conditioning products into the UK and Ireland. During his time as sales manager, Sanyo achieved a no3 position for VRF and turnover grew to £25m.

In 2005 he was appointed vice-president of Sanyo Airconditioners Europe, taking responsibility for all sales and marketing activities for the European air conditioning subsidiary.

In 2006 he left to form his own air conditioning business, Oceanair Distribution, selling Sanyo, Fujitsu and LG products. After two years and having taken Oceanair to a £6m turnover business, he returned to Sanyo as European business development manager at Sanyo Sales & Marketing GmbH, subsequently being appointed general manager.