Media Release
10 March, 2020
Mondelēz International announces change of leadership in Australia, New Zealand and Japan Business Unit
Mondelēz International has today announced that Darren O’Brien has been appointed President Australia, New Zealand and Japan, effective 1 May 2020. Darren will succeed Amanda Banfield, who has announced her decision to leave Mondelēz International for an external opportunity.
Darren joined the company in 2008 as Director Sales, Australia and New Zealand, having previously worked for Fonterra, Mars Petcare, Diageo and the Smiths Snack Food Company. Darren has held numerous senior leadership roles across multiple geographies at Mondelēz International, including Modern Trade Director Asia Pacific based in Singapore, Managing Director Australia and New Zealand Meals, and President Asia Pacific for the Cheese and Grocery business.
Since 2016, Darren has been based in Zurich as President, Meals Europe and the Global Category Team. In this role he has transformed our multi-billion dollar cheese and grocery business across Europe, step- changing growth and profit trajectory, driving market share gains on both the global Philadelphia brand as well as key local jewels, and overseen the reinvention of our supply chain and route to market strategies.
“Darren’s strong relationships inside and outside the business, and his skills in strategy, sales and branding, will help drive our bold growth ambition,” said Maurizio Brusadelli, Executive Vice President, and President Asia, Middle East and Africa.
“He brings an entrepreneurial ability, ‘can do’ spirit, and proven track-record in energising teams, driving new opportunities and growing businesses profitably.”
Mr Brusadelli thanked Mrs Banfield for her outstanding 30-year contribution at Mondelēz International.
“Amanda has brought stability, collaboration and alignment, leading the business through several transformations, making a key divestiture, strengthening customer partnerships and improving customer service results. We are proud that the Australian business has been voted #1 in the Advantage Survey for five out of the last six years.
“Amanda is a passionate and inspiring people leader who has achieved an excellent record of success during her career. We wish her the very best for the future.”
Source: Mondelēz International.