Spirits giant Diageo announced on Wednesday that its former chief executive Ivan Menezes had died at the age of 63, just two days after his early departure due to surgical complications.
Ivan Menezes, who led Diageo for ten years, “was there when Diageo was created” in 1997 and for 25 years since then, “he has helped make the group one of the most popular, successful and respected consumer goods companies.” “, commented the president of the board of directors, Javier Ferran, when describing the ex-director as “very loved by past and present employees”.
“Iván leaves behind many friends and a loving family, and our thoughts are especially with his wife, Shibani, and their two children, Nikhil and Rohini”, concludes Javier Ferran.
“Complications” after emergency surgery
Ivan Menezes was born on July 10, 1959 in Pune, India. He had British, American and Indian nationality. The group announced on Monday the early departure for health reasons of Iván Menezes, who was due to retire on July 1. Therefore, the new CEO, Debra Crew, took over a little less than a month earlier than originally planned.
Ivan Menezes “is currently in hospital and receiving treatment for health problems, including a stomach ulcer,” the group said Monday, referring in particular to “complications” after emergency surgery. Diageo announced at the end of March the appointment of Debra Crew, the first woman at the helm of this company known for Smirnoff vodka and Guinness beers.
Source: BFM TV
