Dirk Slagmulder has been named as the new managing director of Daikin Airconditioning UK.

Mr Slagmulder joins Daikin UK from Daikin Airconditioning South Africa, where he was managing director, overseeing operations from the distributor’s Cape Town headquarters. Previously, he worked as department manager, finance and a senior corporate planner for Daikin Europe in Belgium.

“I am thrilled to be joining Daikin UK at such an exciting time,” Mr Slagmulder said. “We have a number of new and exciting products in the UK and the launch of the domestic Renewable Heat Incentive means the future is looking extremely positive. I am looking forward to working with the Daikin UK team and our installer partners to build on this success and helping everyone make the most of these new market opportunities.”

Mr Slagmulder replaces Peter Verkempynck who, after four years as managing director and seven years working for Daikin UK, will become general manager of Daikin Europe’s Heating Strategic Business Unit, with immediate effect. Mr Slagmulder will take on full responsibilities at Daikin UK from 1 July 2014.