
On March 24, distilled spirits make Diageo announced that Deirdre Mahlan, president Diageo North America, will retire on June 30, 2020. Deirdre has had a long and successful career in the industry, firstly at Seagram and then on to Diageo in 2001, where she joined the North America finance team, rising to become chief financial officer of Diageo in 2010, then taking on the role of president of Diageo North America in 2015.
Deirdre’s successor will be Debra Crew, who will take up the role of president Diageo North America, effective July 1. Crew has served as a non-executive director on the Diageo board since April 2019 and is stepping down from her non-executive director position, and from the audit, nomination and remuneration committees of the board, with immediate effect.
Debra Crew
Deirdre Mahlan
"Diageo North America is a strong business that has been very ably led by Deirdre since 2015," said Ivan Menezes, Diageo chief executive officer. "While we are sad to be losing Deirdre, I know that she leaves a great legacy in the North America business and across Diageo. I am very grateful for her exceptional contribution over many years at Diageo and wish her the very best for her retirement. I am delighted that Debra has agreed to join us in an executive position to lead the next stage of growth in North America. Debra’s extensive experience in consumer businesses will serve Diageo and North America well as we continue to progress on our ambition to become one of the most trusted and respected consumer products companies in the world.”
"I am excited to join the Diageo executive team. I have thoroughly enjoyed my year as a non-executive director of Diageo." Crew said. "This is a unique opportunity to work for a purpose led company with iconic consumer brands, unparalleled global reach and exciting growth prospects. I am looking forward to leading the Diageo North America team to help drive the achievement of our ambition."
Diageo's brands of spirits include Johnnie Walker, Crown Royal, J&B, Buchanan’s and Windsor whiskeys, Smirnoff, Cîroc and Ketel One vodkas, Captain Morgan, Baileys, Don Julio, Tanqueray and Guinness.