Ringo Francis appointed chairman emeritus of UK & Ireland Diversey business

Ringo Francis, the founder and former CEO of Zenith Hygiene Group has been appointed chairman emeritus of the UK & Ireland Diversey business.

Although relinquishing his executive responsibility, he will continue to be present providing support on the direction and strategy as chairman emeritus of the group.

Francis, who started his career with Francis Chemicals in 1986 and then Zenith Hygiene Group in 1996, has had an instrumental role in the UK cleaning and hygiene industry. In April 2018, Francis sold Zenith Hygiene Group to Bain Capital Private Equity and assumed responsibility of merging the company with Diversey in the United Kingdom & Ireland.

Gaetano Redaelli, global president, Professional Division, said: “Ringo’s experience and knowledge will continue to be invaluable for our leadership and people. His commitment to growth and strategic direction will ensure the Diversey and Zenith UK & Ireland business remains one of the leading partners and suppliers to our customers.”

Francis added: “After over two decades in the driving seat, I am looking forward to the opportunity to guide and support the UK & Ireland business through a different lens. My career has been defined by this industry and the role we played in supporting our customers every day and my passion to continue this work will not change. I am proud of the extraordinary team, its products and its service offering, and I am excited for what the future holds.”

Gaetano Radaelli will assume responsibility for the Diversey & Zenith UK & Ireland business on an interim basis until a successor has been appointed and will be supported by Johan ten Berg, who has been working closely with Francis throughout the integration of Zenith Hygiene & Diversey UK.