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Endeavour Group has named Jayne Hrdlicka as its next managing director and chief executive officer, effective 1 January 2026, as the company prepares for its next phase of growth.

Hrdlicka takes over from Ari Mervis, who stepped into the role in January, following the departure of former CEO Steve Donohue.

Commenting on the changes, Mervis said: "After an extensive global search, the board is delighted to have secured such a highly capable leader. Jayne brings many strengths to the role, including a history of using deep consumer insights to define successful strategy formulation and execution and extensive business transformation experience.”

Prior to joining Endeavour, Hrdlicka has held leadership roles across several Australian consumer businesses, including as CEO and MD of Virgin Australia during its exit from administration. She was also CEO and MD of the A2 Milk Company and Group CEO of the Jetstar Group. Between 2010 and 2016, she served as a non-executive director of Woolworths Group, which at the time included Endeavour Group’s liquor and hospitality businesses.

Mervis continued: “Jayne has a proven track record leading consumer-facing businesses to success. She has led many complex organisations and delivered significant shareholder value by capturing the true potential of a company’s brands and assets."

Hrdlicka said: “I look forward to working with the 30,000+ team members and together, continuing to deliver for millions of valued customers as we look to grow the company and unlock value for all of our shareholders".

The Endeavour Group was established in 2018 following the merger of ALH Hotel Groups and Endeavour Drinks. Its portfolio includes Australian and New Zealand winemakers Paragon Wine Estates, wine, beer and spirits distributor Pinnacle Drinks and Australian fine wine retailer Langtons, as well as a number of liquor stores across Australia and other retail and hospitality brands.