Ian Johnston charged with task of tackling Foster’s “strategic challenges”
Ian Johnston has been appointed by the Board of Foster’s Group Limited (Foster’s) to the role of Chief Executive Officer.
Mr 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.
Foster’s Chairman, David Crawford, believes Mr Johnston is the right person to lead the company, following an extensive international search for the most suitable leader. “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,” he said. “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. 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.”
“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,” Mr Crawford advised. “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.”
Mr Crawford added that Mr Johnston would be able to “hit the ground running” due to the time he has spent assessing the company in his role as acting CEO. “Ian is passionate about Foster’s and begins today with a renewed mandate to lift business performance in line with our own expectations and those of shareholders.”Commenting on his appointment, Mr Johnston suggested the company was in good shape for the future with “strong fundamentals” going forward. “It is a privilege to have the opportunity to lead this great business and take on the challenge of driving improved and sustainable business performance,” he said. “In my short time in the business, I’ve been impressed with the strength of our brands, the progress we are making in optimising our supply chain globally and the potential of our people. Foster’s has strong fundamentals, and I am absolutely committed to building on these strengths while improving business performance and tackling the strategic challenges we face.”
