The latest news, trends, analysis, interviews and podcasts from the global food and beverage industry
Fonterra Cooperative Group has announced permanent changes to its leadership structure following interim appointments made in April 2026.
The dairy co-op’s CEO, Richard Allen – who took up the role in May following the departure of previous chief executive Miles Hurrell – said the co-op is evolving from a channel-led to a market-led leadership structure. This aims to accelerate progress on strategic delivery and value growth.
“Our channel-led approach has served us well in establishing momentum in our B2B focused strategy, and the time is right to now make this market-led shift,” he commented. “With the divestment of Mainland Group complete, this structure will deliver our next era of customer-led growth and innovation across our global Ingredients and Foodservice channels.”
Allen explained that the new structure will see a single point of sales accountability in each market for both Ingredients and Foodservice performance, supported by a global growth and strategy team tasked with ensuring farmers’ milk accesses the highest global demand.
Teh-han Chow has been appointed as CEO of Greater China, accountable for leading the dairy co-op’s Ingredients and Foodservice divisions across the region.
Meanwhile, Gaby Amade takes up the role of president global markets, accountable for leading Ingredients and Foodservice businesses across Oceania, Americas, Southeast Asia, Japan, Middle East and Europe.
Finally, Elisa Giusti has been named chief growth and strategy officer. She will be accountable for developing integrated market, product and group strategies, portfolio optimisation, innovation and global new business development.
“Our strategy is unchanged and builds on the Co-op’s strong foundations. This reorganisation enhances our pace of delivery, focus and accountability,” said Allen.
Giusti’s appointment is effective from 15 June, while the remainder of the restructuring will take effect from 3 August 2026.