Suntory Oceania has announced the appointment of Ashish Gandham as Managing Director, Suntory Global Spirits – Oceania.
Gandham succeeds Mark Hill who left the business at the end of last year. He will join Dai Minato, CEO of Suntory Beverage & Food Oceania, in leading the newly established $3 billion multi-beverage business. In his role as Managing Director, he will oversee a diverse portfolio of market-leading spirits brands, including premium Japanese whiskies, -196 ready-to-drink beverages, Jim Beam, Maker’s Mark and Canadian Club.
Currently serving as the Managing Director of Suntory Global Spirits’ Global Travel Retail business in Singapore, Gandham brings two decades of experience in the fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) sector.
He joined Suntory Global Spirits in 2019, having previously worked at Diageo in various commercial and marketing roles across India, Singapore and London. He began his career at Johnson & Johnson in marketing and sales positions.
Gandham said: “It’s a privilege to lead the Suntory team in Oceania at a pivotal time for our business in the region. With a strong local presence and a diverse portfolio of beloved brands, we want to be known for being the best in the industry, and the preferred spirits partner for our customers. I’m genuinely excited to embark on this new era for Suntory Global
Spirits in this vibrant market.”
APAC President of Suntory Global Spirits Susumu Tada said: “Ashish’s appointment represents an important step for Suntory in Oceania as he leads our growth initiatives in the region.
“By uniting our Suntory portfolios and teams, we are well-positioned to enhance our growth and deliver greater value to our customers.”
Gandham is relocating to Sydney with his family and will officially start in his new role once all necessary arrangements are finalised. He will report to Tada and serve on the Asia Pacific Leadership Team.