Allied Domecq loses Euro marketing chief

Allied Domecq has been dealt a severe blow after its European marketing chief Chris Banks re-signed to move to rival drinks company International Distillers & Vintners as international marketing director.

Banks moves to the Grand Metropolitan-owned operation only seven months after taking up his role as marketing and strategic planning director for spirits and wines at Allied Domecq Europe.

He will be responsible for brands including Bailey’s liqueur, Blue Nun wine and Jack Daniels whisky.

He starts at IDV in January next year, and reports to IDV president of international marketing Paul Curtis.

He replaces Susan Murray, who left in June to become president of vodka maker Pierre Smirnoff and also looks after the company’s worldwide marketing strategy. IDV markets the Smirnoff brand worldwide.

Allied Domecq is in the throes of restructuring its international marketing operation.

The company is still seeking international brand directors for Courvoisier brandy and Beefeater gin and has been searching for suitable marketers since May.

Now it will have to widen its search still further to find Banks’ replacement.

Before taking on his most recent role at Allied Domecq, Banks was managing director of URM Agencies, the Allied Domecq-owned operation which markets brands including Teacher’s Scotch, Beefeater and liqueur Tia Maria. He reported to the company president, Europe, David Scotland.

Other changes at Allied Domecq include Sir Christopher Hogg’s move from non-executive deputy chairman of the company to become non-executive chairman.

He succeeds Michael Jackaman in April next year.