Fonterra appoints new managing director in Australia

Screen Shot 2016-05-30 at 7.14.20 AMFonterra Australia has announced the appointment of René Dedoncker to the role of Managing Director Fonterra Australia.

The appointment follows the recent promotion of Judith Swales, previously Managing Director Fonterra Oceania, to Chief Operating Office Velocity and Innovation. In this role, the Australian business continues to report through to Ms Swales.

René Dedoncker started his career with Fonterra in 2005, in the Australian Foodservice business. He has over 20 years’ experience in dairy and FMCG, having held domestic and global roles at Fonterra and the Mars Corporation. Most recently, René has been Acting Managing Director Global Brands and Nutrition.

Ms Swales said the appointment of Mr Dedoncker is the right choice for the Australian business.

“René has been with the Co-op for 10 years and is well-known for his strategic agility and leadership style, having led our global Foodservice business, where he transformed the business into a successful, global model.

“Our Australian business has made great progress on its turnaround. We’ve got the right strategy and with the support of a strong and experienced leadership team, René will continue to deliver on the strategic plan that will see the business return to profit,” said Ms Swales.