Pool/spa equipment manufacturer Fluidra has named a new CEO.
Jaime Ramirez assumes the role effective June 1. He most recently served as executive vice president and president of Stanley Black & Decker’s global tools and storage business.
“The appointment comes at an appropriate moment for Fluidra, as trading in the sector normalizes, and it looks forward to its next phase of development and expansion,” said the publicly held company in a press release.
Ramirez replaces Bruce Brooks, who has served in the role for 13 years and will step down August 31, when he becomes Non-Executive Director. He will assist with the transition.
Ramirez will serve as the global face for the company, working out of Atlanta. This will provide easier access to the company’s Barcelona headquarters. Lennie Rhoades, president of Fluidra North America, continues to lead and serve as the face of the U.S. operation, said company spokesperson Jacquie Edelman.
Ramirez worked at Stanley Black & Decker for more than 30 years. In his most recent role, he ran a business with more than $10 billion in revenue, Fluidra said.
“His expertise in driving growth and profitability, business transformation, strong organizations and strategic acquisitions will be invaluable assets as Fluidra seeks to capitalize on new opportunities and enhance shareholder value,” the company said.
Ramirez also serves as a board director to the multinational personal care corporation Kimberly-Clark.
Brooks is credited with guiding the company during several watersheds, including the merger that formed Fluidra USA. In 2018, Vista, Calif.-based Zodiac Pool Systems merged with the Spanish manufacturer/distributor. Taking on the Fluidra name, it became the North American operation.
Ramirez will be proposed as a director on the manufacturer’s board at its next general shareholders’ meeting.
