Guinness Maker Diageo Appoints Its First Female CEO

By: Trademagazin editor Date: 2023. 03. 28. 09:12

DiageoPLC named Debra Crew as its next chief executive, tapping an internal candidate to succeed longstanding leader Ivan Menezes at the helm of the alcoholic beverage company.

The London-based maker of Johnnie Walker Scotch whisky, Guinness stout and Smirnoff vodka said Tuesday that Ms. Crew, currently Diageo’s chief operating officer, would take over from Mr. Menezes on July 1. In becoming CEO, she adds to the handful of women that lead one of Britain’s biggest companies.

One challenge now facing Ms. Crew is ensuring drinkers continue to splash out on Diageo’s more expensive lineup in the tougher economic environment. Some data has pointed to a slowdown in growth for costlier spirits and wine as shoppers look to economize.

Diageo also faces a challenge in North America, its largest market, where the company recently reported worse-than-expected first-half sales growth and gave a cautious outlook.

Ms. Crew joined Diageo as a nonexecutive director in April 2019, before stepping down from the board the following year to lead the company’s business in North America, its largest market. She was promoted to chief operating officer in October 2022.

Before joining the booze giant, Ms. Crew previously served as CEO of Reynolds American, Inc., held various senior roles at PepsiCo, Inc. and before that had stints at Kraft Foods, Nestle SA and Mars Inc.

The Wall Street Journal