Diageo appoints new CFO

Diageo has said it has appointed a new chief financial officer from the Xerox Corporation, effective from next month.

Kathryn Mikells is currently CFO at the digital printing company, a post she has held since May 2013. She will join Diageo on 9 November.

Mikells has worked for a number of global companies during her career including as CFO for United Airlines from 2008-2010.

“She has a track record for capital discipline, for developing strong cost cultures and for creating efficient, agile operations,” the global drinks producer said in a statement.

Ivan Menezes, Diageo CEO, said: “I am delighted that Kathryn will join our executive team. Diageo is focused on driving performance from our core and on improving productivity to drive out cost to invest in growth. Kathryn has the experience of working with teams to drive disciplined performance management which will contribute to the achievement of our performance ambition. We are starting to see the benefits of the changes we have put in place and I am confident we are uniquely positioned to take advantage of this growth sector.”

Mikells added: “I am excited to join the Diageo team. This is a unique opportunity to work for a company with leading consumer brands, unparalleled global reach and the marketing and innovation agility to drive performance locally. Diageo has a clear and compelling strategy and I am looking forward to working with Ivan and the team to deliver it.”