Paul Whiting, MD of Sennheiser commented: "Simon's experience of integrating different markets and operations is a strength we want to bring to our diverse operation. We are looking forward to working with him and welcome the additional experience he brings to Sennheiser UK."
In 1995, Curtis set up the Denon Pro Leisure Division as sales and marketing manager, in response to Denon's growing interests in the Contract Installation and DJ sectors. In addition to building strong distribution in the DJ market, Curtis was heavily involved in product specification for pro products. In 1999 he was also instrumental in amalgamating Denon Pro Audio/Broadcast with Pro Leisure to form the consolidated entity of Denon Pro, which he managed until 2003.
In late 2003, Curtis was promoted to general manager of the newly formed D&M Pro Europe and successfully integrated the diverse business units of Denon and Marantz Professional across Europe. Commenting on his appointment with Sennheiser UK, Curtis said: "With D&M Pro Europe now a success, with sales up by 40% and profits climbing too and the back office structures are synergising along the lines of D&M Europe, my job is done and I was looking for further challenges. Sennheiser is a very strong brand across seven different markets. There is huge potential to drive business forward by focusing the sales organisation and establishing Sennheiser as the 'Best In Class' performer across all these market sectors. The opportunities are clear, achievable and must be delivered swiftly."
Meanwhile, Mark Perrins will take over from Curtis as general manager of D&M Pro Europe. Previously the company's European sales manager, Perrins said: "It is almost a year since the Denon and Marantz brands were consolidated under the European banner of D&M, and I am delighted to be taking on the challenge at this time. Both brands have enjoyed enormous growth and market visibility under Simon's leadership, but in an increasingly competitive marketplace there is still a difficult path ahead of us."
Mark Perrins is certainly qualified for the undertaking, bringing an enviable pedigree as a pro audio professional in both the sales and product sectors. After working with Harman and Akai he joined Fostex as product manager and later SCV as digital sales manager.
He then oversaw the development of Marantz at the turn of the millennium - first as sales manager and later as sales manager. It was logical, therefore that when the new hierarchy of D&M Professional Europe was announced at the start of 2004 he should be made European sales director.
(Lee Baldock)
