Diageo, Tolaram appoint executives to drive expansion

Diageo and Tolaram have reinforced their leadership in Nigeria’s spirits industry with strategic executive appointments, signaling a new era of innovation, growth, and market expansion.

According to a statement issued on Wednesday, this move comes at a pivotal time as both companies deepen their presence in West and Central Africa’s beverage sector.

Diageo, a global leader in premium beverages, has appointed Kavita Hans as General Manager for its West and Central Africa operations, including Diageo Nigeria Limited.

Hans’ appointment takes effect July 1, 2024, highlighting Diageo’s commitment to leveraging global expertise to drive sustainable growth and industry transformation.

With over 20 years of international experience at multinational giants such as Mars, Heineken, and Diageo.

It noted that Hans brings a wealth of expertise spanning Europe, the Middle East, and Asia. Her tenure at Diageo has seen her hold key leadership roles, most recently as General Manager for the Philippines and Commercial Director for Ireland’s off-trade revenue segment.

She has been instrumental in driving record market share growth, strengthening customer partnerships, and implementing transformative strategies.

Hans’s leadership legacy includes her advocacy for fair industry policies and responsible consumption.

In the Philippines, she played a critical role as Vice President of European Chambers and Chair of the Alcohol Beverages Alliance, championing favorable tax policies and ethical retailing.

Also, as an executive sponsor for Diageo’s Spirited Women Network and Prism Employee Resource Groups, she has actively promoted workplace inclusivity and diversity.

Hans said, “I am honored to lead Diageo’s operations in West and Central Africa, particularly in Nigeria, which holds immense potential.

“I look forward to fostering innovation, developing strategic partnerships, and contributing to the economic growth of the communities we serve.”Diageo’s leadership investment reflects its strategic vision for expanding Nigeria’s premium spirits sector, ensuring continued market dominance and sustainable growth.

Meanwhile, following its recent acquisition of a majority stake in Guinness Nigeria, Tolaram has entered an exclusive partnership with Diageo for its International Spirits Portfolio through its subsidiary, Celebr-8 Lyfe.

It noted that as part of this move, Shobhit Jindal has been appointed General Manager of Celebr-8 Lyfe, tasked with strengthening the brand’s market presence in Nigeria.

Jindal, a seasoned professional with a background at Goldman Sachs and extensive experience in Tolaram’s African expansion, has successfully driven strategic partnerships and led Tolaram’s diversification into Nigeria’s healthcare and automobile sectors.

Under his leadership, Celebr-8 Lyfe aims to revolutionise the premium spirits industry through innovation, strategic alliances, and diverse product offerings.

Jindal said, “Leadership is about inspiring teams, building genuine relationships, and creating memorable experiences. At Celebr-8 Lyfe, we are committed to shaping Nigeria’s premium spirits sector, one celebration at a time.”

“With these appointments, Diageo and Tolaram are poised to redefine Nigeria’s spirits landscape, reinforcing their commitment to innovation, strategic expansion, and market leadership,” it noted.