Housewares Business-to-business magazine for housewares retailers and their suppliers
Following Royal Crown Derby’s acquisition in June by ceramic industry businessman Kevin Oakes, the fine bone china tableware manufacturer has appointed Nikki Green to the role of head of global hospitality.
Nikki, who joins from Steelite International, boasts 17 years of experience in design and hospitality, most recently working as Steelite’s design sales manager for the Middle East, Africa and Asia Pacific (MEAAP).
She will be responsible for growing Royal Crown Derby’s presence in the global hospitality sector by raising brand awareness, driving design-led sales, and developing the brand’s hospitality offering, including its upcoming collections Rumours and Exposé.
During her 17 years in the industry, Nikki has developed product from idea conception through to ordering for some of the world’s biggest hospitality brands including Mandarin Oriental, Hilton, Le Meridien and Marriott. She boasts an MA in Design Management and a First Class Honours BA in Surface Design Pattern.
Commenting on her appointment, she said: “I’ve always been extremely passionate about combining my ability to creatively design and work commercially to deliver beautiful, innovative and functional tableware to meet the exacting briefs of global clients.
“To have the opportunity to bring these skills to Royal Crown Derby, one of the UK’s most iconic brands, is the pinnacle of my career to date. I passionately believe that Royal Crown Derby’s bespoke service for the hospitality industry can be a global success and I’m extremely proud to be joining the team at such an exciting time of brand re-invigoration, development and investment.”
Kevin Oakes, who was fformerly Steelite International ceo, added: “Working alongside Nikki at Steelite, I witnessed first-hand her tenacity and passion for the industry, which led to significant growth of the Steelite brand in the Asia Pacific region and increased revenue.
“I believe that Nikki’s foundation in design, working in tandem with her unrivalled commercial experience and knowledge of the global hospitality sector, is a perfect combination that will enhance our offer and accelerate Royal Crown Derby’s growth in the sector.
“Nikki epitomises what I refer to as the ‘bulldog spirit’ – strength, spirit and determination – and I’m confident that she will bring the same level of enthusiasm and drive to the Royal Crown Derby brand, helping our skilled team to drive the business forward. It’s a pleasure to be working with her once again.”
Royal Crown Derby’s head of global hospitality Nikki Green
