With a wealth of retail experience and an impressive track record in transforming businesses, Graham Bell is B&Q UK & Ireland’s CEO. He was appointed to the role in October 2018, having joined Kingfisher (B&Q’s parent company) back in 1995. Throughout his career, he has led high-growth strategies and competitive marketplaces. These skills are invaluable in the rapidly evolving home improvement/DIY retail segment.
Career path & Experience
Graham Bell started his career in 1998 at B&Q. Working in operational roles and progressing to senior positions such as Operations Director and HR director. He joined Screwfix in 2006 and spent ten years working his way up to run the show on operations and property development. Screwfix was a transformational experience for him. He led rapid store expansion, opening about 60 stores every year nationwide in the UK. His big-box building supply sector background suited large-scale growth and strategic planning again.
Graham Bell joined Screwfix as CEO in 2017. Under his leadership, Screwfix’s estate of trade counters thrived and consolidated. Its status as a leading provider to the UK’s professional tradesmen. Kingfisher’s appointment of him reflected the need in the boardroom at that time for continuity and stability. His tenure of successfully managing Screwfix laid down a marker.
B&Q’s Transformation under Bell’s Leadership
When Graham Bell became CEO of B&Q, he needed to breathe new life into the brand in an environment. Where competition was increasing and people were buying more products online. He led efforts to simplify operations, modernize the in-store experience, and integrate digital. The changes are intended to modernize B&Q as a customer-focused brand. However, they come amid Kingfisher’s quest for greater efficiencies across its UK and Ireland stores. Bell is also “orchestrating a move” in which underperforming stores are closed, with as many as 60 store closures expected within two years to establish more flexibility and profitability going forward.
Recent News & Challenges
Graham Bell has also overseen a move into new digital technologies and sustainability while making strides in improving customer service such as via the TradePoint app for professional customers. Kingfisher’s dedication to environmentally sound practices also informed Bell’s thinking, leading B&Q to develop new products with less or zero environmental impact and reduce its carbon footprint. By late 2024, the DIY market was becoming more intense, and Bell needed to future-proof B&Q with a stronger value proposition & digital opportunity.
Net Worth and Influence
While the precise details of Bell’s net worth are not publicly disclosed, his years in retail and extensive experience as an executive are indicative of a heavily remunerated leader making waves in their sector. With his ability to drive operational efficiency and growth, he has been a key addition to both companies.
