Appointments: MD for Chess; FD for Makro

STEPHEN Dracup has been promoted to the new position of managing director at Cheshire-based telecoms company Chess.

Mr Dracup joined the ambitious company in 2004 when he sold his own business, Hoodpoint, to Chesss. Since then he has held a number of senior roles, the most recent being as managing director of eBillz, Chess’ billing subsidiary.

Last year eBillz had its best-ever year and his promotion is a reflection of his contribution.

Chief executive David Pollock said: “Stephen has been a valued board member, senior leader and strategist at Chess for a number of years. It’s the growth and success of our people which underpins the growth and success of our business and Stephen is an example to all of us in that respect.”

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CASH and carry wholesaler Makro, which has its UK headquarters in Salford, has appointed Jens Koeppen as finance director from February 1.

A specialist in operational and financial restructuring, Jens has substantial experience in corporate finance including roles at Alix Partners, Roland Berger Strategy Consultants and Deutsche Bank.
 
He will work closely with managing director, Juergen Schwarze on the business turnaround plan.

At the same time, the executives from restructuring firm Alix Partner who joined the board last year,  Klaus Raettig, Martin Schumacher and Dan Murphy, have relinquished their positions and have left the business.

Juergen Schwarze, said, “The appointment of Jens Koeppen to the board and the departure of Alix Partners signals a new era for Makro UK.

“Following an intensive period of restructuring, the business is in a much stronger position than it was six months ago and we can continue returning Makro UK to its position of strength with a renewed sense of determination.”