Milnes, who has spent more than 20 years in the sector with brands including Fujitsu General Air Conditioning, Haier and TF Solutions, will lead the company’s regional growth strategy by expanding distributor coverage, strengthening installer engagement and improving access to Airzone’s control solutions.

Airzone reports a sharp rise in domestic AC installations in the UK, with mini VRF and multisplit systems among the fastest-growing segments. The wider shift towards heat pumps, smart thermostats and higher energy-efficiency standards is also driving demand for more advanced control technologies that support decarbonisation and compliance with local and national regulations.

Milnes’ initial priorities include building a robust distribution network, creating clear routes to market for installers and ensuring partners are fully trained on Airzone’s proprietary account management platform. The company says this will accelerate product adoption and improve technical support and inventory availability across the region.

Commenting on his appointment, Milnes said he was impressed by Airzone’s team and product range after first encountering the company at last year’s InstallerSHOW. “Having seen first-hand the opportunities in the market and Airzone’s unrivalled offering, the UK & Ireland represents a hugely untapped and fruitful region for us,” he said.

The hire follows another recent addition to Airzone’s European team: Sophie Decorte, who joined earlier this year as New Markets UK & EU Business Development Coordinator.

Fernando de la Cruz Quintanilla, New Markets EMEA Director at Airzone, said the UK and Ireland remain key growth territories. “We already have a solid foundation of installers who regularly install our products, but bringing Steven on board to establish our dedicated distribution network is the next phase in our expansion journey,” he said. Strengthening local presence, he added, will support existing installers while broadening Airzone’s reach across all major AC brands.