IKEA has announced the appointment of Walter Kadnar as CEO of IKEA Netherlands, effective 1 September 2025. Kadnar, an Austrian national, transitions from his role as CEO and Chief Sustainability Officer at IKEA Germany, bringing over three decades of international retail leadership to the Dutch market.
Kadnar's career with IKEA began in 1988 as a management trainee in Austria. He has since held various leadership positions across Europe, including CEO roles in Poland, Russia, France, and most recently Germany. His extensive experience in diverse markets positions him to steer IKEA Netherlands towards continued growth and innovation.
In his new role, Kadnar will oversee a workforce of approximately 6,000 employees in the Netherlands. His strategic focus includes enhancing the sustainability of IKEA's operations and advancing the company's omnichannel retail strategy to improve customer convenience.
Kadnar expressed his enthusiasm for the new role, stating, "I feel connected to the Dutch entrepreneurial spirit, and the discovery of different cultures and markets greatly appeals to me."
For investors and developers, Kadnar's appointment signals IKEA's commitment to sustainable growth and innovation in the Dutch market. His leadership is expected to drive initiatives that align with global trends in sustainable retail and digital transformation.
People mentioned:
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Walter Kadnar, CEO of IKEA Netherlands
Companies mentioned:
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IKEA Netherlands: Dutch branch of the global home furnishing retailer
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IKEA Germany: German branch of IKEA, previously led by Walter Kadnar
Image of Walter Kadnar © Maximilian Mann
