Sky News has learnt that Sujay Wasan, the head of P&G’s oral care business in North America, is joining the FTSE-100 alcoholic drinks company as the head of its Asia-Pacific operations.
His appointment – orchestrated by former Tesco chief executive Sir Dave Lewis, who joined Diageo last year – sees Mr Wasan replace John O’Keeffe, who has moved to become the boss of its North America unit.
Mr Wasan has spent nearly 30 years at P&G, and will take charge of a division accounting for about 20% of Diageo’s global revenues.
He will join Diageo at a time of sweeping change for the group, which ousted Sir Dave’s predecessor, Debra Crew, last year following a period of poor performance.
On Thursday, Sir Dave will deliver his first meaningful strategy update for the group, which has a market valuation of just over £36bn.
His strategy overhaul is expected to focus on accelerating product innovation in faster-growing categories such as ready-to-drink ranges, alongside a reorganisation of the group’s structure and a significant cost-cutting programme which will eventually entail substantial job losses.
Disposals from Diageo’s sprawling brands portfolio, or further acquisitions, are not likely to be part of this week’s announcement.
In response to an enquiry from Sky News, Sir Dave said: “We’re delighted that Sujay will be joining Diageo.
“He is a global leader with a proven track record of consistently delivering breakthrough business results.”
