Hinge system manufacturer SIMONSWERK UK has announced the appointment of Andrew Kite as head of sales.
The appointment represents a strategic move to strengthen the company’s presence in the UK market as it continues to expand its premium door hardware solutions.
Kite brings over a decade of strategic sales leadership experience from the kitchen industry, having worked with some of the sector’s most prominent names. His career began with the Franke Group in the UK through its Future Leaders Programme, where he progressed from sales manager to national sales manager, leading the UK Projects Channel and serving as an integral member of the senior leadership team.
Subsequently, Kite played a key role in launching the House of Rohl in the UK, consolidating four unique British heritage brands under a single umbrella for Fortune Brands. Most recently, he served as head of sales at Omega Kitchens, where he expanded the sales team and successfully targeted mid- to high-end developers across the UK, securing prestigious projects in London.
"I’m thrilled to be joining SIMONSWERK at such an exciting time in the company’s development," says Kite. "The company’s reputation for premium quality and innovation in hinge systems, combined with their strong heritage of over 135 years in European manufacturing, makes this an ideal opportunity for me to apply my experience in a new sector. The parallels between the kitchen industry and the door hardware market are significant, particularly when it comes to serving discerning customers who demand both aesthetic excellence and functional performance."
Kite’s appointment comes as SIMONSWERK continues to build on its strong UK presence, with manufacturing operations in Tipton dating back to 1977. The company has established itself as a leader in premium hinge solutions across multiple applications, from traditional timber and PVCu doors to sophisticated glass door systems and the innovative TECTUS concealed hinge range.
"Andrew’s extensive experience in strategic sales leadership, particularly his success in targeting high-end developers and securing prestigious projects, aligns perfectly with our ambitions for the UK market," explains Robin Guy, managing director at SIMONSWERK UK. "His track record of expanding sales teams and building relationships with premium customers will be invaluable as we look to strengthen our presence across all sectors of the door industry. The skills he’s developed in the kitchen industry, where quality and design are paramount, translate directly to our premium positioning in the door hardware market."
In his new role, Kite will work closely with the existing UK team to drive continued growth and strengthen SIMONSWERK’s market position. His responsibilities will include developing strategic partnerships, expanding the customer base, and ensuring the company’s premium product range reaches new market segments.
