Premium home appliance maker Miele has tapped its Canadian president Jan Heck to run operations in the U.S. — the German-based company’s second-largest global market.
Heck will relocate to Miele’s headquarters in Princeton, NJ in August, replacing Nick Ord, who is leaving in July after 34 years with the company.
“I have big shoes to fill,” Heck told Marketing.
Heck has been president of the company’s Canadian operations for about 17 years, overseeing strong sales growth and the launch of several new products.
Heck, who was born in Germany and has Canadian citizenship, said he’ll miss Canada but that the U.S. role is a big step up in his career.
“This recognition and appointment to the U.S. is a tremendous honour for me,” Heck said. “It’s going to be my duty, my wish, my desire, and my job to build the brand in the U.S.”
One of his priorities will be launching new products specific to North America, including a growing number equipped with smart-connected technologies that connect appliances to smartphones and other devices through the so-called Internet of Things.
“I think the smart home is becoming a major trend,” said Heck.
Building the consumer experience will also be a key focus for Heck in the U.S.
“It’s one thing to build your dream kitchen and buy beautifully designed and connected appliances. It’s the experience after the sale – including delivery and commissioning and maintenance,” which he said will help boost the brand and drive growth.
In its brand promotion, Heck said the company is doing more digital advertising than ever before. It’s set to launch a new global brand campaign that focuses on the “the feel, touch, design, customer experience, and our German heritage.”
Miele is in the process of finding a replacement for Heck in Canada.
