Sam Fischer, currently managing director, Diageo Greater China, will join the Executive Committee as president, Diageo Greater China and Asia.
 
Anand Kripalu, CEO United Spirits Limited (USL), will also join the Executive Committee. Both Fischer and Kripalu will report to Nick Blazquez, president, Diageo Africa and Asia Pacific.
 
In addition to his current responsibility as president, Diageo Western Europe, John Kennedy will take responsibility for Russia, Eastern Europe and Turkey as president, Diageo Europe.
 
Appointments are effective September 1 2014.
 
Diageo has announced that Gilbert Ghostine has accepted a role outside Diageo and will be leaving the organisation on September 30  2014.  Ghostine has been with Diageo for 19 years in a number of roles, latterly as president, Diageo India and Greater China, and chief corporate development officer.

Ivan Menezes, chief executive said: “The changes we have announced today signal a further shift in Diageo from an organisation based on regions to one which puts accountability in the markets. In addition they strengthen our executive team and enhance our focus on two key growth markets, China and India.

"I congratulate Sam and Anand on their promotion to the Executive Committee and look forward to seeing the further impact which Nick and John will have on Diageo’s performance given their new and wider roles.
 
“In his time with Diageo, Gilbert has provided strong leadership to many areas of our business across North America, Europe, Africa, the Middle East and Asia Pacific.  We wish him all the very best for the future.”

Meanwhile the group has also announced Nicola Mendelsohn will join its board as non-executive director, effective 1 September 2014. She will also join the Audit, the Nomination and the Remuneration Committees on appointment. Mendelsohn is currently Vice President, EMEA of Facebook.