SABMiller appoints new Foster’s boss
The head of SABMiller’s Asian operations, Mr Ari Mervis, is to take the helm of SABMiller’s recently acquired Foster’s operations in Australia.
SABMiller’s acquisition of Foster’s is due to become effective on settlement on 16 December 2011. As Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Mr Mervis will be responsible for the integration of Foster’s into the SABMiller group.
Mr Mervis has been Managing Director of SABMiller’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.
Commenting on the appointment, SABMiller’s CEO Graham Mackay said, “Ari brings experience from across the SABMiller group and knowledge of Australia, having established SABMiller’s joint venture there in 2006. 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.”
Mr Mervis will take over from Foster’s current CEO, John Pollaers. In a media statement released today, Mr Pollaers said, “The past two years have seen big changes within the business and I am proud to have led the company through this period. The demerger of the wine business, a significant restructure, and the re-launch of the iconic Carlton and United Breweries brand have allowed this business to believe in itself again and succeed.”
Ari Mervis will retain his responsibility for the SABMiller’s Asia Pacific region and continue in his role as Chairman of the company’s joint venture in China.
