#247 - JAN HECK, President and CEO of Miele USA
SUMMARY
This week Jan Heck, President and CEO of Miele USA joins David and Marina of FAME Architecture & Design to discuss the history of the company, Jan's career, what makes Miele different, innovation in the domestic appliance industry, the benefits and challenges of new technologies and smart homes, creating products for new markets, the importance of utilizing skilled workers on projects, and much more. Enjoy!
ABOUT JAN
Jan Heck, President & CEO Miele USA, is a steadfast leader. He has an eye on the bigger business picture to maintain Miele’s status as a leading premium appliance brand. His aptitude at building a resilient leadership team has allowed the company to empower each to develop a strong and intelligent workforce with the same vision for the company. Jan is opinionated but comes at no fault and with good judgment on pushing the company to live up to the brand’s motto of “Immer Besser,” or “Forever Better.”Jan has always been a mentor and incorporated numerous future leaders, advising them to have a vision where they want the company to be in 10-15 years. “Stick to that focus. Get your team on board and living that vision. But know that bumps in the road will happen – be ready to pivot but never let go of the end goal.”
Jan has been leading Miele’s business in North America for 21 years, first in Canada and now in the United States. Throughout this time, he has worked very closely with Miele’s engineers and product designers, in Germany, to develop products important for the North American market. Two unique product lines that Jan played an important role in developing are the industry-leading MasterCool refrigeration line and ranges.
For the days to come, Jan wants to continue to retain Miele’s standing as a leading premium appliance brand; consumers will become more surrounded by the brand—on both a national and local sales level; in print and online; on a majority of social platforms; and local and online events. “We want to grow with the user. A consumer may have their first brand interaction with a Miele vacuum; then they may need a replacement item like laundry, dishwasher or freestanding refrigerator; then move up to a kitchen remodel where they will install a full suite of appliances,” says Jan.
