Nespresso has announced that Stefan Vermeulen, currently Managing Director for Nespresso New Zealand, will succeed Jean-Marc Dragoli as Managing Director of Nespresso Oceania.
Mr Vermeulen brings a wealth of brand knowledge and local experience, having held leadership roles within Nespresso for more than 12 years, including three leading the team in NZ and four as Head of Nespresso Australia’s Professional business.
Mr Dragoli will now step into the position of Global Head of Nespresso Authorised Brands, based in Switzerland, after four years growing the Oceania business from Australia.
Under Mr Dragoli’s leadership, Nespresso says the market has benefitted from the launch of many new product innovations and services. His prioritisation of local sustainability initiatives has also helped the business deliver on its B Corp commitments and broader purpose of using coffee as a “force for good”.
Mr Vermeulen, too, has driven strong growth for the business in NZ with the successful launch of the Vertuo system to market in 2021, the expansion of Nespresso’s coffee range, and local sustainability initiatives.
Sharing his vision for the business in 2023 and beyond, Mr Vermeulen says: “We truly believe that coffee can be a force for good for people, communities and planet and the more we drive sustainable growth, the more we can have a positive impact as a brand and organisation through the entire value chain.
“For Australians and New Zealanders, coffee plays such an important role in their lives so delivering exceptional coffee experiences based on an obsession for uncompromised in cup quality is paramount.
“Nespresso often leans into and learns from the rich coffee culture and behaviours of this market to drive innovation for the benefit of customers around the world, which we saw with the launch of the Original Line Creatista machine in partnership with Breville.
“There are more exciting innovations to come this year alone, particularly within our Vertuo system, that will reimagine how coffee can be enjoyed at home and in the workplace in the region.
“Sustainability will also remain at the core of our strategy, as we explore new ways to engage more consumers with our recycling program and introduce initiatives that will help us on our journey towards net zero and improve as a B Corp.”
Mr Vermeulen will start his new role from 1 July.