Foster's appoints Australasian wine boss

Foster's Group has appointed an Australasian wine boss. David Dearie is to be the new managing director, Australasian Wine.

Dearie will lead the Australian and New Zealand wine business - created as a result of the Wine Strategic Review completed in February this year.

Dearie has spent 20 years in the international drinks industry, including over a decade with global drinks company Brown Forman, most recently as managing director Western Europe and Africa based in London. He spent three years as president and CEO of Brown Forman's Wine Group based in the US, and has managed international brand portfolios and hospitality businesses on behalf of Inchape and Whitbread & Co.

CEO Ian Johnston said: "I am delighted to welcome someone of Dearie's calibre to the executive leadership team.

"His combination of global drinks industry expertise and wine business understanding uniquely qualify David to lead Foster's Australasian wine business."

"Dearie has a proven track record in wine, leading and growing businesses across multiple countries, channels and brands.

"Dearie’s appointment completes the renewal of operational leadership required for the fundamental transformation of our business."  

Dearie will relocate from the UK to Australia over coming weeks and will commence his role in late July.