Minerva Furniture Group has announced the appointment of Julian Cox as its new COO.
Julian started out in the furniture industry in 1984, working for Maples Furnishings, where he spent 11 years, working my way up the ranks to bed and bedroom buyer.
He then moved on to Harrods, spent a short time overseas with Courts International, before returning to the UK to work for Courts UK as upholstery buyer.
He was appointed beds and bedroom controller at Furniture Village in 2007. Following that, he took on a product development role at Willis & Gambier, before moving to Baker Furniture, where he became commercial director.
He went on to direct the Furniture and Home division at buying group AIS, a role which he left in 2021.
Julian, who replaces Jim Orr at the helm of Minerva (and Roy Beagent before him), says: "I am truly excited about the opportunity to take on my next challenge with the Minerva Furniture Group. Having worked closely with both its loyal membership and supplier base throughout my career, I have gained a deep appreciation for the strong relationships that define this organisation. I look forward to reconnecting with everyone in the near future and contributing to our shared success."
Martin Lukehurst, chairman of the Minerva Furniture Group, adds: “We are delighted that Julian will be joining us from Monday 2nd June, bringing with him a wealth of industry experience and insight after a long and successful career in both furniture retail and the supply chain.
"This year the Minerva Group celebrates our 35th year, and we are looking forward to harnessing Julian's knowledge and expertise as we continue to grow and develop.”
The buying group is hosting the Spring Furniture & Bed Show at Telford International Centre on 20th-21st May, where it will be holding a gala dinner to celebrate its anniversary. Find out more here.
