Asahi appoints Nigel Parsons as CEO of Europe and International division 

Asahi has named Nigel Parsons as CEO of its Europe and International division, with Andrew Bailey serving as interim chief during the leadership transition.

EU – Asahi Group Holdings has appointed Nigel Parsons as chief executive officer of its Europe and International (AEI) division following the departure of current CEO Dragos Constantinescu at the end of June. 

Parsons is expected to assume the role during the second half of the year, while Andrew Bailey will serve as acting CEO during the transition period. 

The company said Parsons brings extensive leadership experience across commercial operations, people management and multi-category business development within both Asahi and the wider fast-moving consumer goods sector. 

Parsons joined Asahi Beverages in March 2021 after spending 12 years at Mondelēz International, including leadership responsibilities for the company’s Sub-Saharan Africa business unit based in Johannesburg. 

He initially served as CEO of the former Asahi Lifestyle Beverages division before being appointed chief operating officer in April 2025.  

According to Group CEO APAC Amanda Sellers, Parsons played a key role in driving sustainable growth, strengthening the company’s brands and managing operations during challenges linked to the Middle East conflict. 

Atsushi Katsuki said: “Nigel Parsons brings extensive leadership experience and a proven track record of driving sustainable growth and leading organisational transformation. We are confident that, under his leadership, AEI will advance its strategic priorities in full alignment with the Group’s Medium- to Long-Term Management Policy and strengthen value creation across our business portfolio.” 

Amanda Sellers added: “Nigel will be missed at Asahi Beverages – he has been a great colleague, and we’ve valued his deep commercial acumen and people-centred leadership. I am extremely proud of what he has achieved for Asahi and our customers and partners and wish him the very best for his new role.” 

Operations of Asahi Beverages APAC’s Commercial function will be temporarily fulfilled by Chief Growth Officer Oceania Brian Phan until a permanent replacement is made. 

In addition to his experience at Asahi and Mondelēz International, Nigel Parsons has also served on the boards at both the Australian Food & Grocery Council and Brewers Association of Australia. 

Sign up HERE to receive our email newsletters with the latest news and insights from Africa and around the world, and follow us on our WhatsApp channel for updates.

Newer Post

Thumbnail for Asahi appoints Nigel Parsons as CEO of Europe and International division 

U.S. wine and spirits sales decline in Q1 2026 – WSWA

Older Post

Thumbnail for Asahi appoints Nigel Parsons as CEO of Europe and International division 

Ethiopia set to become World’s fourth largest coffee producer in 2026/27 – USDA