Diageo announces the appointment of Emma Walmsley as a Non-Executive Director effective 1 January 2016. Emma will also join the Audit, the Nomination and the Remuneration Committees on appointment.
Having been on Diageo''s Board for nine years, Diageo also announces that Laurence Danon will step down at its upcoming Annual General Meeting, 23 September 2015.
Emma Walmsley is currently Chief Executive Officer of GSK Consumer Healthcare, a global joint venture between GSK and Novartis. As chief executive of GSK Consumer Healthcare, Emma is responsible for overseeing the world''s leading over-the-counter (OTC) healthcare company. During her tenure as chief executive, GSK Consumer Healthcare has become the leader in 36 markets as well as gaining a strong position in broader growth areas. Prior to her current role at GSK, Emma was President of GSK Consumer Healthcare and has been a member of GSK’s Executive Team since 2011. Emma moved to GSK from L''Oreal where she worked in marketing and general management for 17 years.
Diageo Chairman, Dr Franz Humer said:
"I look forward to welcoming Emma to Diageo''s Board. She brings to Diageo a strong blend of commercial and marketing insight. She has significant experience in consumer products, and understands the consumer mindset and how to shape consumer trends. Her work across mature and fast developing countries will support us as we embed our expanded geographic footprint and maximise our strong platform for growth.
I would also like to thank Laurence Danon for her contribution as a Non-Executive Director over the last nine years. Laurence has been a valued member of the Board during a period of progress and growth for Diageo."