The Chapter Leadership Committee provides a link between the grassroots of the Association, its chapters and NKBA National. The committee is charged with monitoring member needs and wants at the chapter level and conveying these needs to NKBA staff. This important national volunteer committee is composed of five individuals who serve three-year terms. The national election cycle, happening September 1 to September 30, will include one open position for the CLC. If interested in applying during the election cycle, go here starting September 1. Today we’re featuring Sandee Mann, Sales Executive – Western Canada Showroom at Kohler Canada. 

 

How did you get your start in the kitchen and bath industry and/or NKBA?

I’ve always had a passion for interior design, I was fortunate to be offered a great Interior Designer position for a Large Design/Build Firm in Vancouver in 2007.  We managed 30 high-end residential builds a year. When the economy took a turn, I was offered a job in luxury plumbing sales.  I really enjoy working with the design community and customers on bathroom and kitchen selections/sales.  I now work for Kohler Company as a Sales Executive for Western Canada, and I oversee 86+ showrooms with a great support team.

Do you have a current trend or product that members just have to know more about?

The new Statement and Anthem collection from Kohler is truly inspiring–sleek design mixed with modern technology! Oblo design allows for more of a gracious shower experience.  The Iconic Showerhead makes a stunning design feature in any bathroom!

What inspires you about the kitchen and bath industry and/or in your life?

The continued evolution of the kitchen and bath industry keeps me inspired.  As we move to voice technology or integrated design, I’m inspired every season with “what’s new.”  I believe the next five years will be pivotal years of innovation for kitchen and bath.

Where is your favorite vacation spot and does that influence your home decor? 

Travel and design go hand in hand.  I’ve fortunately been able to travel to over 30 plus countries, but have many more to explore. Different cultures and lifestyles are so beautiful and inspiring. It’s hard not to take bits of influence to evolve your tastes in home decor.

What are you most looking forward to this year, personally or professionally? (or both!)

This year is a big renovation year for the showrooms I oversee.  We’re opening new Kohler Registered Showrooms in Western Canada, but also renovating all existing stores. This will be upwards of 50+ showrooms for 2022.

Bonus Questions: 

What National Committee are you currently on and why did you want to volunteer for it? 

Volunteering for the Chapter Leadership Committee seemed to be a natural progression. I was a Chapter President for the past five years and wanted to continue to help grow and support all chapters.  

What topic or area are you most passionate about in the kitchen and bath industry?

I love all discussions of kitchens and baths!  As a Sales Representative for Kohler/Kallista Brands product is always a big topic.  I provide trainings forSustainability, new products,  and technology. It’s all a passion!

What is your favorite part of being an NKBA member and/or national volunteer?

My favorite part of the NKBA are all the great people and members.  NKBA members are so talented and have such a depth of experience. Its a joy getting to know new and old members. KBIS has also become a great tradition–seeing all our members in Orlando and Vegas has created many fond memories.

About Sandee Mann 

Starting in his father’s contracting business Sandee Mann’s two-decade career in the kitchen and bath industry eventually grew into a tenure as an interior designer as well as a kitchen and bath design professional. Since 2010, he has served as a showroom specialist for a manufacturers’ representative. But Sandee’s most notable contribution to the kitchen and bath industry is his long-term service and leadership within British Columbia’s National Kitchen & Bath Association chapter. Over the last five years as chapter president, Sandee has led a renaissance for the organization, including significant growth in membership, programming and member engagement. A frequent speaker and educator, Mann has rebuilt the association’s board and has revitalized its design award program.