LONDON, UK: Board of Directors of Diageo Plc has appointed Debra Crew Interim Chief Executive Officer with immediate effect, ahead of her appointment as Chief Executive Officer and joining the Board as an executive director on 1 July 2023. As previously announced, Ivan will retire from the Board on 30 June 2023.
Sir Ivan Menezes, the CEO of Diageo, is currently in hospital receiving treatment for medical conditions including a stomach ulcer. Over the weekend, we learned that Ivan’s recovery suffered a significant setback due to complications, which followed emergency surgery on the ulcer.
Debra Crew has been with Diageo for over 20 years and has held a number of senior roles, including Chief Operating Officer. She is a highly respected business leader with a strong track record of success.
In a statement, the Board of Directors said: “We are confident that Debra is the right person to lead Diageo during this time. She is a highly experienced and capable leader who has a deep understanding of our business. We wish Ivan a speedy recovery and look forward to welcoming him back to the Board in July.”
Debra Crew said: “I am honored to be appointed Interim Chief Executive Officer of Diageo. I am committed to working with the Board and the rest of the leadership team to ensure that Diageo continues to deliver for our shareholders, customers, and employees.”
Diageo is a global leader in the drinks industry, with a portfolio of brands including Johnnie Walker, Guinness, Smirnoff, and Baileys. The company employs over 30,000 people and operates in over 180 countries.