Danny Celoni, the CEO of PepsiCo’s Australia, NZ & South Pacific business, has been named as the new CEO of Carlton & United Breweries.
Celoni will replace outgoing CUB CEO Peter Filipovic from February. Filipovic announced his retirement in July with parent Asahi Beverages saying at the time he would remain in the role until a replacement was appointed.
In a statement issued today, Asahi Group CEO Robert Iervasi said Celoni had built a formidable reputation across the beverages industry in Australia and Asia over 25 years.
“Danny’s proven ability to successfully run large and complex businesses, across alcohol and non-alcohol, was critical in our decision to recruit him to become our new CEO of CUB.”.
Iervasi said that with PepsiCo being a key strategic partner of Asahi, the company had the pleasure of working closely with him over several years. “We’ve observed first-hand his ability to understand and deliver great results for his customers, and build exceptional teams”, Iervasi said.
Wern-Yuen Tan, CEO PepsiCo APAC said Celoni’s energy and passion would be missed. “Danny has led significant growth for the Australian and New Zealand business. We wish him all the best in his new role.”
PepsiCo will announce his successor “in due course”.
Celoni said he had enjoyed “every minute” of his tenure at PepsiCo, which he described as “a fantastic business”.
“It has been a privilege to lead the talented ANZ team, and I am incredibly proud of what we have achieved together. I know they will continue to take the business from strength to strength.”
In a statement issued by Asahi, he said it was an honour to be given the opportunity to lead CUB and join Asahi Beverages.
“With its unrivalled beverage portfolio and commitment to innovation, I’m excited by the strategic direction and growth opportunities for the business.
“I’m particularly looking forward to working with CUB’s customers and partners as we seek to navigate the evolving Covid-normal environment and the other challenges that lie ahead.”
