UDV seeks Cinzano brand chief

United Distillers & Vintners is looking for a new marketing director for its global Cinzano brand.

Richard Ambler, previously in the position, left a month ago to become managing director at Mentzendorff, a London-based wine importers. The Cinzano position is based in Italy.

A UDV spokesman says the company is “in the process of recruiting” but cannot confirm whether someone has been selected for the post.

Cinzano – the world’s second largest vermouth – competes directly with Martini. It was recently relaunched with its first new packaging for 20 years, designed by Brewer Riddiford.

UDV also appointed a new global commercial and strategy director this week following the departure of Alan Cordery, who has occupied the position since the merger of IDV and United Distillers in 1997.

Ivan Meneze, formerly the integration director for Diageo and UDV, takes over strategy development for brands including Smirnoff, Johnnie Walker, J&B, Gordon’s, Baileys and Malibu.

Meneze has previously worked for Nestlé and Whirlpool, and the management consultants Booz Allen Hamilton. He joined Guinness in 1997 as strategy director.

UDV’s chief executive Jack Keenan comments: “Cordery has been instrumental in the development of ambitious and exciting brand strategies at UDV. With UDV’s integration now complete, he has decided to move on. I have every confidence that Ivan Meneze will build on his achievements.”