Smirnoff chief quits to join rival Allied Domecq
Allied appoints Smirnoff president Kim Manley to replace Todd Martin as its top global marketer.
Allied Domecq Spirits & Wines has hired Smirnoff president Kim Manley as its top global marketer.
Manley has quit his post at Diageo-owned Guinness UDV to join Allied Domecq as chief marketing officer.
He replaces global marketing director Todd Martin, who became president of Allied Domecq North America in March.
Manley will oversee international marketing including the UK, where Grahame Cox is marketing director.
Manley is a former marketing director of UDV Australia and worked temporarily as UDV UK marketing director when Tony Scouller retired last year.
Manley also worked for Sara Lee Corporation, as general manager of sales and marketing, and Yamaha, as general product manager.
Allied Domecq brands include Ballantine’s whisky range, Cockburns Port, Harveys Sherry, Tia Maria and Teachers whisky.
Philip Bowman, chief executive of Allied Domecq, says: “Manley brings a proven record of success in product innovation and the marketing of premium brands.
“His input will further strengthen our successful strategy of improving the performance of our international spirits and wine business.”
No one at Diageo or Guinness UDV was available to comment on Manley’s departure, or on whether he has been replaced.
