Murray Goulburn (MG) has announced the name of its new chief executive.
Ari Mervis is the former managing director for the Asia Pacific of the world’s second largest brewer, SABMiller.
MG chairman Philip Tracy said the board employed Mr Mervis because of his extensive operations and consumer goods experience.
“After a comprehensive international search, the Board unanimously agreed that Ari was the ideal choice to lead MG at this critical juncture in its history,” Mr Tracy said.
“We are delighted to have secured a candidate with a proven track record of delivering results and operational success across multiple geographies.”
Mr Mervis’ career with SABMiller, the world’s second largest brewer, began in 1989 and included senior positions in South Africa, Swaziland, Russia and Hong Kong.
In his most recent capacity, Mr Mervis was Managing Director of SABMiller in the Asia Pacific and CEO of Carlton & United Breweries in Melbourne, with responsibility for overseeing businesses across Asia Pacific including China, India, Vietnam, South Korea and Australia.
Mr Mervis said MG was “a great company, with a long and proud history.
“I am looking forward to partnering with MG’s dairy farmers, employees, customers and stakeholders to restore this great Australian co-operative, as we adapt to the challenges and opportunities facing the dairy industry globally.”
Mr Tracy paid tribute to interim chief executive David Mallinson.
“As interim CEO, David has led MG with conviction and discipline during an exceptionally challenging period, focussing on the twin priorities of MG’s value-add strategy and achieving significant cost efficiencies to support stronger farmgate milk pricing for MG’s suppliers,” Mr Tracy said.
