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PPG announces leadership transition in architectural coatings EMEA
John Smith will be appointed vice president, architectural coatings, EMEA, effective 1 July 2026, succeeding Steve Pocock, who retires on 30 June 2026 after more than 20 years of service.
John Smith boasts over 25 years of international leadership experience, having successfully driven profitable growth across consumer and B2B sectors. Most recently, he held the position of executive vice president and general manager at Signify, leading its global connected lighting business. Prior to this, Smith held various senior roles at Philips, overseeing global and regional operations in consumer health, grooming, and home care.
Steve Pocock joined Sigma Kalon in 2000, a company later acquired by PPG, and steadily progressed through commercial roles of increasing responsibility. In 2019, Pocock was appointed vice president, architectural coatings EMEA, and led the region’s commercial organisation from 2024 onward.
The appointment of John Smith is expected to align with PPG’s long-term strategy to strengthen its market position and deliver sustainable, high-performing solutions across the EMEA region.
