Diageo Australia has made significant changes to its executive leadership team, appointing three new directors including a new marketing and innovation chief, and expanding the role of an existing executive.

Sarah Shimmons has been named as the new Marketing & Innovation Director. She brings over 16 years of experience in the fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) marketing sector and has been with Diageo for seven years. Her previous roles include Global Marketing Director on Smirnoff and Marketing and Innovation Director for Global Travel.

Carolina Puerta has been appointed as the Supply Chain Director. Prior to this role, Puerta served as Operations Director for Tequila and Mezcal at Diageo Mexico. Her experience in operations is expected to enhance the efficiency of Diageo Australia’s supply chain.

Dan Timmins will take on the role of HR Director. Timmins was most recently the Head of HR South Latin America and Caribbean (LAC), based in Santiago. He is set to relocate to Sydney to commence his new position in June.

Wilson Del Socorro will expand his responsibilities to lead the Diageo Australia Corporate Relations function while continuing his role as APAC Regional Corporate Relations Director. Del Socorro joined Diageo in 2010 and has held positions such as Global Government Affairs Director and International Trade and Tax Director.

The appointments are aimed at leveraging the company’s global expertise to drive growth in the Australian market.

Diageo Australia Managing Director Dan Hamilton described the calibre of talent joining his executive leadership team as second to none.

“There’s incredible growth opportunity in the Australian drinks industry and I’m delighted to be able to draw on the deep expertise from leaders who have been working across Diageo in other markets,” he said.

“They all bring a global lens to how we leverage our blend of iconic brands like local star Bundaberg Rum as well as our global giants like Johnnie Walker and Smirnoff in the Australian market and how we continue to build strong partnerships with our customers and other important trade partners.”

Diageo is a global leader in the beverage alcohol industry, with a portfolio that includes well-known brands such as Bundaberg Rum, Johnnie Walker, and Smirnoff. The company’s products are sold in more than 180 countries, and it is listed on both the London and New York Stock Exchanges.

The new appointments are part of Diageo Australia’s strategy to harness global expertise and strengthen its market position in Australia. Shimmons, Puerta, and Del Socorro have already assumed their new roles, while Timmins will join the team in Sydney in June.