NMBS appoints industry veteran Kevin Williams as new CEO

NMBS, the UK’s largest buying society for independent merchants across various sectors, has announced the appointment of Kevin Williams as its new Chief Executive Officer, effective August 1, 2025. This strategic move signals a focus on continued growth and innovation within the independent merchant sector.

Williams brings over 30 years of extensive experience in building materials and construction distribution. His career includes a long tenure at Travis Perkins, where he progressed through various leadership roles, and most recently served as Managing Director at Headlam PLC. His background encompasses broad operational, commercial, and leadership expertise, making him a standout choice for the role.

He will succeed Chris Hayward, who became CEO in 2022 after more than 47 years of service to NMBS. Hayward will officially depart early next year, ensuring a smooth transition.

“NMBS is an incredible organization, providing security and stability while driving innovative new thinking in the builders’ merchants sector on digitalization, efficiency, good employment practices, apprenticeships, and ESG best practice,” said Williams. “I’m honoured and excited to be joining NMBS at a pivotal time for future growth.”

Jeremy Miller, non-executive chairman at NMBS, commented, “Kevin was a standout choice for the CEO role in an extraordinarily strong pool of candidates. The board is delighted to be welcoming Kevin into NMBS, and from August we will begin a seamless transition.”

Williams’ appointment is poised to leverage his deep industry knowledge to further strengthen NMBS’s position, which boasts an annual turnover of £2.2 billion and a network of over 1,350 merchants. His leadership is expected to foster new connections and build on NMBS’s positive impact and commercial success in a dynamic market.

Source: https://www.nmbs.co.uk/new-ceo-of-nmbs-to-join-in-august/