Foster's Appoint Johnston as CEO

Johnston stepped into the CEO role in an acting capacity in July this year, following the departure of Trevor O'Hoy, having previously served as a non-executive Director of the Company since September 2007.

26/09/08 The Board of alcohol giant Foster's has announced the appointment of Ian Johnston to the role of Chief Executive Officer, effective immediately.

Johnston stepped into the CEO role in an acting capacity in July this year, following the departure of Trevor O'Hoy, having previously served as a non-executive Director of the Company since September 2007.  O'Hoy stepped down after several years of sour results from Foster's wine operations and after the group admitted it had paid too much for wine assets.

Foster's Chairman, David Crawford, said "the Board is delighted to have appointed such an experienced and capable executive to the CEO role at this important time in Foster's history." 

"Ian has over 20 years of leadership experience with global FMCG companies, including his time as Managing Director of Global Confectionery for Cadbury Schweppes plc.  Ian understands the nature of the global marketplace, and has a proven ability to build sustainable business performance by growing the top line, and investing in innovation and capability." 

"We have been absolutely clear and consistent that we would appoint the best person to lead the Company, and have conducted a rigorous international search to this end.  Having initially intended to return to his non-executive role, Ian recently indicated his availability to take on the CEO appointment.  Ian's mix of skills and experience, combined with the positive impact he has made over the past few months, convinced the Board that he was ideal for the role." 

Foster's Group Limited (Foster's) also announced the retirement of Graeme McGregor from the Foster's Board, effective from the conclusion of the Annual General Meeting on 29 October 2008.