Diageo has announced the appointment of former Tesco boss Sir Dave Lewis as its new CEO and executive director, effective on 1 January 2026.

Lewis brings decades of experience to the role, having previously served as Group CEO of Tesco between 2014 and 2020.

Additionally, he worked at FMCG giant Unilever for three decades, where he oversaw marketing and business operations.

Sir John Manzoni, Diageo’s chair said: “We are delighted to welcome Dave as Diageo’s new CEO. Having conducted an extensive and thorough global search, the board unanimously felt that Dave has both the extensive CEO experience and the proven leadership skills in building and marketing world-leading brands, that is right for Diageo at this time.”

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Manzoni added: “We are confident that Dave will work with the team to take Diageo into its next successful chapter in the evolving consumer environment. The board wishes to recognise and thank Nik Jhangiani for his excellent leadership as Interim CEO and for continuing to drive forward Diageo’s sharpened strategy.”

Lewis added: “Diageo is a world-leading business with a portfolio of very strong brands, and I am delighted to be joining the team. The market faces some headwinds, but there are also significant opportunities. I look forward to working with the team to face these challenges and realise some of the opportunities in a way which creates shareholder value.”

In July, the drinks manufacturer’s former chief executive Debra Crew stepped down from the role, and Nik Jhangiani was appointed as the interim CEO.

The drinks giant recently saw its Q1 profits fall and reduced its overall guidance on future growth.