Diageo appoints Sir John Manzoni to succeed Javier Ferrán as Chair

UK – Global beverage giant Diageo has announced the set exit of Javier Ferran as chair of the board in February 2025. 

Ferran will be replaced by non-executive director Sir John Manzoni, according to company statement. 

He joined the Diageo Board in July 2016 and was appointed Chair on 1 January 2017. 

Manzoni is a seasoned business leader with extensive experience in the beverage alcohol industry and other complex global sectors.  

He currently serves as Chair of SSE plc, a FTSE-listed multinational energy company. Ferran brings a proven track record of leadership, having previously held the position of Chief Executive of the UK Civil Service and held senior executive roles at BP plc and SAB Miller plc. 

“On behalf of the entire Board, I want to express our gratitude to Javier,” said Susan Kilsby, Diageo’s senior independent director who led the appointment process.  

“He has led our Board with great distinction, helping us to attain new levels of commercial success and to strengthen our position as one of the most trusted and respected consumer products companies in the world.” 

Under Ferrán’s leadership, Diageo achieved an average annual total shareholder return of 8 percent over the last decade and significantly increased diversity within the company, with women now comprising over 70 percent of the Board and 44 percent of senior leadership. 

“The Board is delighted to appoint John as Diageo’s next Chair,” said Kilsby. “His experience and expertise will be instrumental as Diageo continues to develop and grow its global business in the years ahead.” 

Sir John Manzoni expressed his honor at taking on the role and praised Javier Ferrán’s contributions to Diageo. “Since joining the Board, I have been continually impressed by the growth potential of the organisation, the quality of our brands, and the dedication and high standards of Diageo colleagues around the world,” said Manzoni.  

He looks forward to supporting the executive team in achieving Diageo’s full potential. 

Diageo’s Chief Executive, Debra Crew, also commended Ferrán’s leadership and expressed her excitement to work with Sir John Manzoni.  

“With a strong focus on execution, we will continue to invest behind our iconic brands to create value for shareholders and maintain our position as an industry leader,” said Crew. 

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