Frans Hoorelbeke to step down as Daikin Europe chairman

BELGIUM: Frans Hoorelbeke is to step down as chairman and director of Daikin Europe in a number of board changes at the Ostend-based air conditioning and heat pump manufacturer.

Hoorelbeke, who has been a director since 1991 and chairman since 2005, will become Daikin’s honourable senior advisor from the end of June. 

Now 74, Hoorelbeke’s 45-year career with Daikin began when he joined the newly established Daikin Europe NV in 1976 as the person responsible for general affairs. 

His role as chairman will be taken by current Daikin Europe president Masatsugu Minaka. Toshitaka Tsubouchi, current vice president sales at Daikin Europe NV, will become Daikin Europe’s new president.