Clementoni UK country manager Shahbaz Khan will be leaving the business at the end of January, after nearly a decade with the company.

Shahbaz joined Clementoni in 2013 having previously spent five years at Argos as a toy buyer. In his role as country manager, Shahbaz has overseen the full UK operation and has strongly contributed to establishing Clementoni as a preferred supplier in the UK for infant and pre-school toys, STEM kits and puzzles. In this period, Clementoni has seen double digit growth each year through increased distribution, high quality, innovative products and partnerships with key licensors.

Guido Vingiani, general manager of the Clementoni Group said: “Shahbaz has been a fantastic asset to the Clementoni family. We have experienced continuous growth since he joined – even through the pandemic – and we thank him for the dedication and passion he has always put into the brand and his job. We are certainly sorry to see him go but support his decision and wish him every success in his next venture. The UK market is incredibly important to the Clementoni group and we are committed to long term success. We have strong plans in place for 2022 and beyond and look forward to welcoming colleagues and customers at London and Nuremberg Toy Fairs.”

Shahbaz commented: “I have enjoyed every moment of my time at Clementoni and feel proud at the achievements I have made even through the toughest couple of years. I feel I am leaving the business in a strong position, and long may its success continue. I take with me fond memories of Clementoni and the toy industry as a whole that I will forever cherish, and I look forward to my next challenge.”

Clementoni is in the process of recruiting a replacement as UK country manager and an announcement is expected shortly.