Rheda-Wiedenbrück, 25 February 2025. Hermann-Josef Pöhls felt both sad to be leaving and excited to be starting a new chapter in his life as he handed over the reins to his successor Kai Horstmann (50) last week after 11 years with the company. Although Pöhls will remain at COR until the end of October to oversee a number of projects, Kai Horstmann has taken over operations management.
In his role as Operations Manager, Kai Horstmann leads a team of around 140 employees and has accountability for the entire production process. In addition to overseeing manufacturing workflows and monitoring quality assurance, Horstmann will be responsible for the further optimisation of production processes to improve efficiency in line with the lean factory concept.
Leo Lübke, Managing Partner at COR, is delighted about the new appointment: “Kai Horstmann is a great choice in terms of continuity because he has experience in both the sales and the workmanship side of the business. He knows all the ins and outs of production operations and, as a trained carpenter, Kai Horstmann has always been passionate about premium quality furniture. After gaining his master craftsman certificate he held various positions, most recently as Head of Production at Poggenpohl in Herford.
“Kai Horstmann is a manager with extensive expertise, experience and commitment. I’m sure he will make a valuable contribution to COR’s success going forward,” said Hermann-Josef Pöhls about his successor.
COR is setting its future course with Kai Horstmann heading operations, and this successful management change stands for both continuity and progress.
“I look forward to contributing my experience to COR’s further development and to working on innovative solutions with the team,” said Horstmann about his new position.
The entire COR team is excited to be working with Kai Horstmann and he has their best wishes for a successful start in his new role.
