Duravit Americas Names New President as Company Targets Strategic Growth

Oliver Bleich succeeds Bob Downie and will lead the manufacturer’s premium and project business while strengthening relationships with trade partners.

Key Highlights

  • New Americas leadership: Oliver Bleich takes over as President with experience at several premium kitchen, bath and design brands

  • Project-business focus: Duravit is targeting continued growth in premium and project applications across the Americas

  • Trade relationships: The company plans to strengthen connections with architects, designers and trade partners as it expands its regional presence.

DULUTH, GA — Duravit has appointed Oliver Bleich as President of Duravit Americas, effective Aug. 1, 2026, as the bathroom products manufacturer looks to expand its premium and project business across the region.

Bleich succeeds Bob Downie, who concluded his tenure with the company in July. The leadership transition is part of Duravit’s continued investment in the Americas and its effort to strengthen relationships with architects, designers, trade partners and consumers.

New President Brings Premium-Brand Experience

Bleich joins Duravit with international leadership experience in the premium interiors and design industry. His previous positions include senior roles with Dornbracht, SieMatic and Keuco, followed most recently by serving as Executive Vice President at Fermob USA.

His background spans premium kitchen and bath, home furnishings and design, giving him experience working with customers and trade partners in markets where product design, quality and craftsmanship are key purchasing considerations.

Duravit expects Bleich’s customer-focused approach to support growth while strengthening the company’s position in the Americas.

"I am truly honored to join Duravit as President for the Americas and deeply grateful for the confidence that the management team and the owners have placed in me. Throughout my career with premium brands in the kitchen & bath and home furnishings industries, I have been inspired by the power of exceptional design, innovation, and craftsmanship to shape the way people experience their living spaces,” reflects Bleich. “Duravit embodies these values at the highest level, and I am excited to lead the next chapter of its success in the Americas.”

Leadership Change Targets Project and Premium Growth

In his new role, Bleich will lead Duravit’s Americas business as the company continues to invest in the region and pursue growth in premium and project applications.

For architects, designers and trade partners, the company's focus includes expanding its market position while continuing to provide products and service aimed at supporting projects from specification through installation.

Duravit said the transition will also support its efforts to respond to changing customer requirements across the Americas.

Duravit Thanks Outgoing President

The company credited Downie with helping strengthen Duravit’s presence across the Americas during his tenure and expressed its appreciation for his leadership and contributions.

With Bleich now leading the region, Duravit said it intends to build on that foundation while continuing to develop relationships across the architectural, design and trade communities.

The company remains focused on providing bathroom products, service and support to its customers and partners throughout the Americas.

To learn more visit www.duravit.com/en-us

This piece was created with the help of generative AI tools and edited by our content team for clarity and accuracy.
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