Diageo has announced that Sir John Manzoni, current non-executive director, will assume the role of Chair of the Board around February 5, 2025, following the retirement of current Chair Javier Ferrán from the Board.
Sir John Manzoni became a member of the Diageo Board in October 2020, previously serving as Chief Executive of the UK Civil Service from 2014 to 2020. He presently holds the position of Chair at FTSE-listed multinational energy business SSE plc and serves as a non-executive director at engineering and technology business KBR, Inc. Additionally, he previously served as a non-executive director at multinational drinks company SAB Miller plc from 2004 to 2015. Earlier in his career, Sir John held the roles of President and Chief Executive Officer at Talisman Energy and held various senior executive positions at BP plc.
Javier Ferrán, who joined the Diageo Board in July 2016 and assumed the role of Chair on January 1, 2017, will be stepping down. The search for a successor was initiated in February. (inside.beer, 2.2.2024)
Susan Kilsby, Diageo’s senior independent director overseeing the appointment process, expressed gratitude to Javier for his exceptional leadership and contributions to the company's growth and success. She highlighted Diageo's achievements under his tenure, including robust shareholder returns and enhanced diversity within the organization.
The Board expressed its confidence in Sir John's capabilities, citing his extensive leadership experience in beverage alcohol and other dynamic sectors. They anticipate his valuable contributions as Diageo continues to expand its global footprint and drive growth.
Javier Ferrán expressed his appreciation for the opportunity to lead Diageo's Board during a period of significant growth and transformation. He looks forward to collaborating with Sir John and the Board to ensure a seamless transition.
Sir John Manzoni expressed his enthusiasm for his upcoming role and praised Javier's leadership. He emphasized Diageo's growth potential, brand quality, and global capabilities, pledging to support the executive team in realizing the company's ambitions.
Debra Crew, Diageo's Chief Executive, thanked Javier for his strategic guidance and welcomed Sir John as the new Chair. She affirmed the company's commitment to investing in its iconic brands and maintaining its leadership position in the total beverage alcohol sector.
In addition to his role as Chair, Sir John Manzoni will succeed Javier Ferrán as Chair of the Nomination Committee in February 2025.
