Daikin Australia has announced the passing of Bob Woodhouse at the age of 78.
A veteran of the HVACR industry Woodhouse was formally inducted into the ARBS Hall of Fame in 2024 for his long-standing contribution to the region and was recognised for his role as the treasurer of the Air-Conditioning and Refrigeration Equipment Manufacturers Association (AREMA).
In a formal statement Daikin Australia confirmed Woodhouse passed on September 15 and is survived by his wife, children and grandchildren.
Daikin Australia began in 1981 the year Woodhouse joined the business as chief accountant and credit manager.
He was promoted to company secretary in 1987, general manager in 1991, and director in 1994.
“With each promotion, Bob's passion for excellence and innovation only grew stronger, eventually leading him to become the managing director of Daikin Australia and associate director of Daikin Industries,” the statement said.
“Under Bob's strong leadership, Daikin Australia grew to be the largest air conditioner manufacturer in the country.
“His strategic vision and unwavering commitment to quality paved the way for the expansion of the factory and the development of the Daikin Specialist Dealer distribution network, setting new benchmarks in the industry.”
In later years, Woodhouse became chair of Daikin Australia and Daikin New Zealand where he continued to shape the future of the air conditioning industry in the region.