Diageo has appointed Deirdre Mahlan as its interim chief financial officer, effective from 18 August 2025.

The move follows Mahlan having spent 27 years at the drinks giant and predecessor companies, including five years as Group CFO between 2010 and 2015.

She most recently served as Interim CEO and chair of The Duckhorn Portfolio, a US-based luxury wine company. Last October, it was bought by the private equity firm Butterfly Equity $1.95bn.

Mahlan’s appointment comes as a replacement to former-CFO Nik Jhangiani, who is currently serving as interim CEO.

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Jhangiani said: “Deirdre brings extensive spirits and functional expertise to the Interim Chief Financial Officer role, complemented with deep knowledge of Diageo and its operations.

“I am delighted that she has agreed to return on an interim basis and I have full confidence that she will provide invaluable guidance to our teams, and partner with me as we deliver on our Accelerate programme to drive long-term sustainable growth.”

The appointment aims to ensure continuity in Diageo’s financial leadership following recent senior changes at the FTSE 100 firm. Earlier this month, Diageo’s chief executive Debra Crew has stepped down from the role of CEO after two year, and five years in the company.