Diageo has promoted Matt Bruhn, marketing and innovation director for Australia, to the role of global brand director for its flagship Smirnoff vodka brand.
Bruhn takes up the position next month and will report to David Gates, head of premium core brands.
He will take responsibility for the revamped brand strategy for Smirnoff, following the appointment of its new global agency 72andSunny last month.
Although he officially starts the new role on 1 October, Bruhn will initially be based in the Sydney office until the end of October, continuing to oversee the Australian marketing operations.
Bruhn has held a number of senior roles during has nine years at Diageo, including senior vice-president of its vodka, rum and tequila brands.
The drinks giant has not yet lined up a replacement for Bruhn in the Australian office, and it is understood there will be an internal and external recruitment search launched soon.
He replaces Simon Burch who is leaving the business after seven years to pursue other opportunities.
© 2013 - ESM: European Supermarket Magazine by Ellen Lunney
