Chief executive, Kingfisher UK

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Marketing man Euan Sutherland put his skills to fine use this year as B&Q engaged in a price battle with its rival Homebase. Implementing a supermarket-style price check advertising campaign, Sutherland spearheaded the attack on its main competitor, just in time for the crucial Easter trading period.

But the personable Sutherland is not just a marketeer. He has proved his operational prowess in his two years at the helm, galvanising store staff last year with a £12m monthly bonus scheme, and rolling out its TradePoint business to 118 stores by the summer with a £26m investment.

The six-foot-plus Scotsman has also led various online initiatives, such as reserve-and-collect, and continued to ensure B&Q takes the lead on the environment, launching eco shop-in-shops and training ‘eco advisers’ to offer in-store guidance. The retailer is also looking at pushing into eight new categories, including storage boxes and home cleaning.

Under Sutherland’s watch, B&Q’s profits soared 79.4% to £195m in the 12 months to January 30, 2010. While this could be a tricky year for a retailer so directly linked to the housing market, Sutherland’s unwavering enthusiasm and determination will ensure B&Q holds on to the top spot in the DIY league table.