By James Atkinson
Ari Mervis, the new CEO of Foster's, brings a wealth of experience to the role from across the SABMiller group as well as knowledge of Australian market, the company says.
SABMiller this week announced Mervis, who is currently SABMiller Asia managing director, will take over from current CEO John Pollaers when he steps down later this month.
SABMiller chief executive Graham Mackay said Mervis has been managing director of the company's Asia business since October 2007 and was the sponsor of the Foster's acquisition.
"Since joining SABMiller in 1989 he has held a number of senior positions in the organisation, including managing director of Appletiser and managing director of SABMiller's operations in Russia and Australia," he said.
"He is ideally qualified to lead the integration of Foster's into the SABMiller group and to deliver value from the acquisition for all stakeholders."
Mervis, who will be based in Melbourne, will be responsible for the Foster's business and the integration of Foster's into the SABMiller group.
He will also retain responsibility for the Asia Pacific region and will continue in his role as chairman of the SABMiller's joint venture in China – CR Snow.
The SABMiller regional office will remain in Hong Kong and a new Asia managing director will be appointed to oversee SABMiller's businesses in India and Vietnam, its ongoing regional business development and export operations, as well as providing support to CR Snow.