Brownes Dairy appoints Natalie Sarich-Dayton as first female CEO

Brownes Dairy has appointed Natalie Sarich-Dayton as the first ever female CEO to lead the Australian company in its 135 years history.

Sarich-Dayton will succeed Tony Girgis, who served as Brownes Dairy CEO for seven years and is described as championing the return of traditional cheddar cheese to west Australian supermarkets for the first time in 14 years.

Grigis said: “Brownes Dairy is an iconic western Australia company and I have been honoured to have led a vibrant and innovative team for many years as the CEO and managing director. I have greatly enjoyed working alongside Natalie, and believe she is an inspired choice as the company’s new CEO who will continue to bring success to western Australia’s favourite dairy.”

Prior to her appointment, Sarich-Dayton served as the dairy company’s director of sales and marketing and is praised for driving the return of the ‘Milkos’ home delivery service amid Covid-19 lockdowns.

She brings with her over 20 years of international food and beverage experience, working for companies such as Coca-Cola Amatil, Danone and Unilever.

“Brownes Dairy is a remarkable company with a thirst for product and brand innovation. Everyone in the business genuinely believes in our mission of ‘doing dairy better, together’, and I’m excited to take the reins as CEO and continue our tradition of nourishing Australian families with the best range of high-quality dairy products,” said Sarich-Dayton. 

She added: “It’s crucial western Australia business take a leading role in promoting more women to leadership positions, and I’m honoured that Brownes has entrusted me with this vital role. The pandemic has reminded us about the role we all can play in keeping our communities, including our businesses, authentically connected.”