Suntory Oceania has announced that the CEO of Suntory Beverage & Food Oceania, Darren Fullerton, will retire in 2025.
Fullerton joined Suntory in 2020 and played a critical role in establishing Suntory Oceania and bringing together the end-to-end manufacturing, sales and distribution of Suntory’s licensed and non-alcohol portfolios.
With over 12 years of experience as a CEO, Mr Fullerton said that now is the right time to embark on his next chapter.
“Working at Suntory for the past five years has been a career highlight,” he said.
“Being part of an organisation that aligns so closely with my values and unlocking the potential of our Oceania business has been an incredible privilege.
“The creation of Suntory Oceania firmly positions the business for a strong and successful future, built on a foundation of Suntory’s ambitious ‘Yatte Minahare’ spirit. I know the team will continue to thrive and I look forward to supporting the business in an advisory role.”
Makiko Ono, President of Suntory Beverage & Food, thanked Fullerton for his four years with the business.
Ono said: “Darren has been an extraordinary leader, driving growth, innovation and a culture of excellence in Oceania. He has lived the One Suntory mindset and set a benchmark for our future global business.”
During his time Fullerton developed a strong partnership with Mark Hill, the Managing Director of Suntory Global Spirits Oceania to create Oceania’s fourth largest beverage player, which will launch in mid-2025 to disrupt and ignite the category with its 40 market-leading brands.
Fullerton will lead the final stages of the creation of Suntory Oceania to the end of March and then continue as an advisor, and The Shout will bring you details of his successor when announced.