Diageo Appoints Former Tesco Chief Dave Lewis as CEO

In a significant leadership move, Diageo has announced the appointment of Dave Lewis, former CEO of Tesco, as its new Chief Executive Officer, effective in 2026.

Lewis will be responsible for steering the global beverage giant — known for brands like Johnnie Walker and Guinness — through a crucial turnaround phase following the company’s recent downgrade of its sales and profit outlook for fiscal 2026.

Leadership Transition

Lewis succeeds Debra Crew, who stepped down as CEO and Board Director in July 2025.

Until Lewis formally takes over, Nik Jhangiani, currently serving as interim CEO, will continue to lead the company through December 2025, after which he will resume his role as Chief Financial Officer.

An Accomplished Global Leader

Bringing over 30 years of experience in consumer goods and retail, Dave Lewis is widely recognized for his strategic and transformational leadership.

He currently serves as Chair of Haleon, sits on the Board of PepsiCo, and is also Chairman of Xlinks, a renewable energy venture.

Before these roles, Lewis spent 28 years at Unilever, where he advanced from a graduate trainee to senior global executive positions, including President of the Americas and Global President of Personal Care.

Track Record of Transformation

During his tenure as CEO of Tesco (2014–2020), Lewis led one of the most notable corporate turnarounds in the retail sector.

He executed major strategic divestments in Korea and Thailand and oversaw a £3.7 billion merger with Booker, creating a powerful combined retail and wholesale entity.

Diageo appointment of Lewis underscores its focus on revitalizing performance, driving sustainable growth, and strengthening its global leadership in the premium beverages market.

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