Diageo Australia has announced that Managing Director Angus McPherson will leave the business at the end of September to pursue “an opportunity outside the company”.
McPherson started in the role of Diageo Australia MD in April 2020 and guided the business through the COVID-19 pandemic and lockdowns, helping the trade through those hard time with the Raising the Bar program.
Throughout his tenure at Diageo, McPherson helped drive Australia’s growing spirits industry, holding industry leadership roles with Spirits and Cocktails Australia and DrinkWise, he also attended many Australian Distillers Association conferences.
Diageo Asia Pacific President John O’Keeffe said: “Through his unwavering commitment to create a high-performing organisation, Angus has fostered a team that embodies passion, determination and resilience. This was particularly evident during the COVID-19 lockdowns and one of his proudest moments was working alongside Diageo Australia colleagues to support our customers through the Raising the Bar initiative.”
“I know we are sad to lose Angus, but I am sure our entire Australia business will join me in wishing him every success as he takes on his next adventure later this year.”
Under McPherson, Diageo has taken significant steps to continue to build a more inclusive and diverse workplace. This has included the launch of industry-leading policies, such as the full payment of superannuation for employees who choose to take 52 weeks of family leave.
McPherson said: “It has been an absolute privilege to work at Diageo. The team’s resilience and passion for the business and its brands, particularly as we managed the challenges of COVID, is something I am incredibly proud of.”
A successor to take on the role of Managing Director Australia will be announced shortly.