Barry O'Sullivan, Diageo 1

Source: Diageo

Fmcg veteran O’Sullivan joined Diageo Ireland in 2021

Diageo GB has appointed Barry O’Sullivan as its new managing director.

O’Sullivan, previously managing director of Diageo Ireland, will take up the role on 1 July.

Until his start date, Nuno Teles will continue to act as managing director at Diageo GB. Upon O’Sullivan’s arrival, Teles will become managing director of Diageo Mexico.

O’Sullivan had delivered “consistent, sustainable growth” for Diageo Ireland in his four years in charge of the unit, Diageo said.

Updates under his leadership included a €100m spend to decarbonise St James’s Gate, as well as a €30m investment in Guinness 0.0 production, it added.

He joined Diageo Ireland in 2021 after serving as managing director for Mars Petcare in Australia and New Zealand. Previously he held roles for Mars in Mexico, the Middle East, Turkey and Africa.

Teles joined Diageo Mexico after “three very successful years in GB, where he consistently grew the business despite challenging market conditions”, said Diageo.

He had “made bold decisions to reshape the GB business,” including the creation of the Diageo Luxury Company to streamline and refocus the unit on the luxury sector, it added.

“After four wonderful years in Ireland, I look forward to bringing my experience to this new role and build on the incredible legacy that Nuno leaves behind,” O’Sullivan said.

Teles said: “While I am excited by the opportunity ahead, I will be very sad to leave the remarkable market that is Diageo GB. Barry is a brilliant leader and hugely respected across the business, and I have strong confidence that Diageo GB will thrive under his leadership and continue our commitment of brilliant execution.”

Alongside the appointments of Teles and O’Sullivan, Diageo has also announced the promotion of Louise Ryan to be the new managing director of Diageo Ireland.