June 22, 2016

Fonterra appoints managing director for Australian business

Fonterra Australia has announced the appointment of René Dedoncker to the role of managing director for Fonterra Australia.

The appointment follows the recent promotion of Judith Swales, previously managing director of Fonterra (Oceania), to chief operating officer (Velocity and Innovation). In this role, the Australian business continues to report through to Swales.

Dedoncker started his career with Fonterra in 2005, in the Australian Foodservice business. He has over 20 years' experience in dairy and FMCG, having held domestic and global roles at Fonterra and the Mars Corporation. Most recently, he has been acting managing director for Global Brands and Nutrition.

According to Swales, the appointment of Dedoncker is the right choice for the Australian business. "René has been with the Co-op for 10 years and is well-known for his strategic agility and leadership style, having led our global Foodservice business, where he transformed the business into a successful, global model," she said. "Our Australian business has made great progress on its turnaround. We've got the right strategy and with the support of a strong and experienced leadership team, René will continue to deliver on the strategic plan that will see the business return to profit."

Dedoncker commences his role immediately and will be based in the company's Australian office, in Melbourne.