Category: People Moves

Entain Plc has handed the permanent reins of its Australia and New Zealand arm to Andrew Vouris, following a global search for a new Chief Executive. Vouris, who has led the business on an interim basis since June, will now take the role full-time, tasked with steering Entain ANZ through what the group described as a “compliance-led and customer-focused” new era. The new CEO brings deep sector experience, having served as General Manager and Operations Lead of Tabcorp’s Media and Wagering unit before joining Entain in 2021. He was instrumental in building Entain’s esports wagering division following the acquisition of Unikrn, although the venture was wound down in 2023 as the group scaled back non-core projects. The appointment comes at a pivotal moment for Entain’s Australasian strategy. From the second half of 2025, the leadership team sees strong prospects in the region, which CEO Stella David and CFO Rob Wood have previously described as a “soft market” ripe for growth. Entain is prioritising aggressive expansion of Ladbrokes Australia and Neds to capture state-level market share as compliance rules reshape the sector. Meanwhile, legislative reform in New Zealand is tightening the screws on offshore operators. Amendments to the Racing Industry Act, effective from 28 June 2025, extend TAB NZ’s exclusivity over racing and sports betting into the online sphere. The so-called “legislative net” will block unlicensed foreign platforms from targeting Kiwi players, keeping wagering funds onshore to support the sustainability of the racing and sports industry while reinforcing harm-minimisation protections. Stella David backed the appointment, concluding: “Andrew’s leadership as interim CEO has demonstrated his commitment to our people, our partners, and to building a sustainable, compliance-led and customer-focused culture.” His tenure may come up against some difficulties, however, with AUSTRAC, Australia’s financial regulator, looking into Entain’s operations – specifically how it has met its anti-money laundering duties. Source: https://sbcnews.co.uk/sportsbook/2025/08/26/entain-aus-nz-new-ceo/

Christian Stammkoetter will succeed longtime chief executive Gilles Andrier, the Swiss fragrance giant announced alongside new growth targets for 2030. Swiss fragrance and flavour maker Givaudan Wednesday set new 2030 growth targets and announced a succession plan for its long-serving CEO Gilles Andrier, who will retire in March 2026 after 20 years leading the company. Danone executive Christian Stammkoetter has been designated as his successor. The company also said Chairman Calvin Grieder would step down in 2026, with Andrier set to replace him subject to shareholder approval. The change in leadership comes as Givaudan unveiled its new 2026-2030 strategy, targeting average like-for-like sales growth of 4–6 percent, an increase from its current 4–5 percent target. The company kept its free cash flow ambition unchanged at over 12 percent of sales. For the full year, Gilles Andrier said Givaudan would be “more or less at 5.5 percent like-for-like growth,” referring to 2025 like-for-like sales while speaking at a conference with investors. Givaudan said its new strategy involves extending its customer reach and deepening its geographical presence, while also moving into high value-added segments like beauty and pet food. Chief financial officer Stewart Harris added that capital expenditure would rise to 4–5 percent of sales in the next strategic cycle, from 3–4 percent previously, to fund growth and modernise plants. The announcement comes as recent results in the sector have pointed to more cautious consumer demand, with management noting that affordability is now a key priority in mature markets like Europe and the US, not just high-growth ones. As of 1101 GMT, shares of the company were down 2.2 percent. Givaudan’s shares fell last month after its second-quarter organic growth missed expectations, fuelling concerns over slowing demand that were echoed by German rival Symrise, which cut its 2025 outlook last month. On the subject of tariffs, the company said the overall impact would remain “very manageable” for the group, adding that it now forecasts full-year input cost inflation of around 3 percent. Source: https://www.businessoffashion.com/news/beauty/givaudan-new-ceo-christian-stammkoetter/

Bullfrog has appointed Kim Anderson as its new Chief Executive Officer, succeeding founder Dalton Henshaw, who launched Bullfrog in 2020. Henshaw led the company through its first five years, during which it was named one of AFR’s Most Innovative Companies in Media & Marketing and featured on Smart Company’s Smart50 list of fastest-growing SMEs in Australia. Under his leadership, Bullfrog also received multiple global and local creative and agency of the year awards. “Since inception, we’ve been on a journey to challenge broken legacy agency models and have evolved into a true growth company,” said Dalton Henshaw, founder and outgoing CEO. “Today’s CMOs need partners who can connect creativity, technology and business impact like never before – proving value right through to the CEO and CFO. “Succession planning is critical to enduring businesses, and handing the reins to Kim at this moment feels like the natural next step. She embodies our values and brings a global reputation for cultivating communities and delivering commercial results. It’s the right leadership at the right time.” As a global marketing lead for the FIFA Women’s World Cup, Anderson brings a record of commercial results and fan-first, community-led strategies, aligned with Bullfrog’s growth agenda. At FIFA, Anderson helped deliver a record-breaking tournament, reaching over two billion global viewers, attracting nearly two million spectators, and generating $1.32 billion in economic impact for Australia alone. Her leadership helped redefine women’s sport on a global stage, leaving a lasting cultural and commercial legacy. With over two decades of marketing, innovation, and communications experience across Australasia, the US and UK, she has worked with some of the world’s influential brands in roles with TEDx, Smart Design, as well as her consultancy. “Bullfrog’s progressive model puts data, creativity and community at the centre. Picking up from Dalton’s leadership, I’ll shape a business that’s brave, modern and values-led,” said Anderson . “We have ambitions to be a magnet for great talent, growth-focused partners, and forward-thinking creative leadership. This is a chance to define a new category of service model, a modern Australian growth company that’s independent, impactful and culturally in tune. The kind of business I am excited to lead.” Anderson’s appointment completes an Executive Leadership Team that is purpose-built for growth and impact and sees Bullfrog doubling down on its ability to scale challenger brands into category icons. Henshaw will remain actively involved as Founder, playing an advisory role with key clients and the leadership team prior to expecting the arrival of his first child in December. Source: https://www.brandinginasia.com/bullfrog-names-kim-anderson-as-new-ceo/

REA Group has named Cameron McIntyre as the real estate platform’s new chief executive officer, replacing current CEO Owen Wilson, who is set to retire. McIntyre begins 3 November. Melbourne-based McIntyre has approximately three decades in the financial services and accounting sectors. Most recently, he served as chief executive officer of CAR Group Limited for the last nine years, where he helped the company grow six-fold, REA said. “We are delighted to announce Cam’s appointment, following a comprehensive global search,” said REA Group chairman Hamish McLennan. “His proven calibre and unique experience, including a deep understanding of, and success in, a business that has much in common with REA, make him the ideal person to build on REA’s strong momentum and lead its next phase of growth.” Wilson’s last day as CEO will be on 31 October, at which time he will take on the role of chair of REA India. REA Group is parent company to a number of brands, including Australian brokerage giant Mortgage Choice, data firm PropTrack, Flatmates.com.au and realestate.com.au, among others. McIntyre’s placement at the helm of REA Group signals a potentially transformative phase for mortgage brokers and the broader home loan market in Australia. With a background in digital innovation and financial services, the company has high hopes that McIntyre will sharpen REA’s focus on integrating technology with property and finance, streamlining the home loan process for consumers and brokers alike. “Having led the growth and transformation of CAR Group’s business, Cam has a wealth of experience in successfully leading a thriving global digital business,” McLennan said. “He has consistently executed strategies that enhance value for customers while breaking new ground to improve the consumer journey. His track record of driving high performance and his commitment to leading the growth and development of teams also demonstrate a clear alignment with REA’s values.” Source: https://www.brokernews.com.au/news/breaking-news/mortgage-choice-parent-company-rea-group-names-new-ceo-287817.aspx

The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) has named Sarah Proudfoot as its new chief executive officer following an open recruitment process. This marks a key leadership transition as the regulator implements major changes to its merger review framework. Sarah Proudfoot’s career Proudfoot’s appointment follows nearly two decades at the ACCC and the Australian Energy Regulator (AER). She began her career with the agency in 2005 and has since taken on several leadership roles, including her most recent post as executive general manager of the National Anti-Scam Centre. She has served as acting CEO since February 2025. Her previous roles include heading the ACCC’s Infrastructure Division between 2020 and 2024, where she managed regulatory oversight in industries such as energy, transport, and communications, as well as leading the ACCC’s inquiry into the childcare sector in 2023. ACCC’s new CEO ACCC chair Gina Cass-Gottlieb acknowledged Proudfoot’s tenure and experience. “During her career Sarah has consistently demonstrated her ability as an outstanding strategic leader with personal drive, credibility, and integrity and a strong commitment to public service,” she said. “I am confident that with Sarah’s contribution as CEO leading our capable people, our agency will continue to deliver important outcomes for the Australian economy and community.” In a statement following her appointment, Proudfoot said she welcomed the opportunity to lead the organisation. “One of the many things I’ve loved in my time at the ACCC is the fact our work makes a difference to people’s lives every day. It is a significant responsibility and privilege to take on the role of CEO and to work with commissioners and our talented, dedicated team in the interests of consumers and protecting competition across our economy,” she said. Source: https://www.insurancebusinessmag.com/au/news/breaking-news/new-accc-chief-takes-helm-as-merger-rules-evolve-534873.aspx 

Source: https://www.tattarang.com/news/2025/harvest-road-group-appoints-experienced-agribusiness-executive-as-new-chief-executive-officer/  Mr Gaynor brings more than 35 years’ experience in Australia’s agricultural sector to the role. Most recently, he served as CEO of Paraway Pastoral Company, a wholly owned company of Macquarie Pastoral Fund. Under his leadership, Paraway operated 30 diversified pastoral and farmland stations across the country and was recognised as one of Australia’s top performing agribusinesses. Harvest Road Group is a wholly owned portfolio company of Tattarang, the private investment group of Andrew and Nicola Forrest. Tattarang CEO John Hartman welcomed Mr Gaynor to the group. “Harvey brings deep experience leading complex agricultural businesses and is well placed to deliver on Harvest Road’s strategy by focusing deeply on our core business and strengthening our position in beef and aquaculture ,” Mr Hartman said. “With more than 100 years of history in Australian beef, we remain passionate about the agri-food sector and are committed to investing for long-term, sustainable growth.” Mr Gaynor said one of his early priorities was to connect with WA cattle producers and continue to build long-term mutually beneficial relationships to supply their high-quality beef to Australian and global markets. “I see Harvest Road being a genuine partner and supporter of our fellow Australian producers and all the communities in which we live and work,” Mr Gaynor said. Currently based in Orange, New South Wales, Mr Gaynor looks forward to relocating to Western Australia for the role in July. “I’ve already seen that Harvest Road’s culture is built on a foundation of strong values with people at the core, along with an intrinsic care for animals and the environment. I’m excited to work alongside a team and owners so committed to operating with integrity,” he said. Mr Hartman also thanked Tattarang Head of Portfolio Operations Tim Wood for his stewardship of Harvest Road Group as interim CEO for more than a year, during which time the business delivered significant growth across its operations. Mr Wood will return to his leadership role at Tattarang when Mr Gaynor commences as CEO.

Hastings Technology Metals has appointed Vince Catania as its new chief executive officer (CEO), effective immediately. The leadership change comes as Hastings advances its Yangibana project in Western Australia, which is considered one of the world’s most advanced rare earths projects. Catania has been with Hastings since January 2023 holding the general manager corporate position. In this role, Catania aided the finalisation of the Yangibana joint venture with Wyloo and maintained agreements with Traditional Owners and environmental regulators. “I am excited to commence the role of CEO with Hastings and building on what has been a pivotal first half of 2025 for the company,” Hastings incoming CEO Vince Catania said. “I look forward to working closely with Wyloo as we move Yangibana further along the construction path and into FID (final investment decision), as well as working to progress our broader portfolio of assets including the Brockman heavy rare earths and niobium project and the Whiteheads gold project.” Catania brings a deep understanding of the Gascoyne region and Yangibana, having previously served as the member of Parliament (MP) for northwest WA. “Vince’s journey with the Yangibana project commenced when he was the local MP for northwest which included Yangibana and has had a long association with our project,” Hastings Technology Metals executive chair Charles Lew said. “Since then, he has been a valuable addition to the management team and contributed to a number of key areas of our business including managing the partnership with Wyloo. “As Hastings continues to develop, Vince will lead the work on the Yangibana joint venture as well as the permitting processes required to bring our Whiteheads gold project into mining.” In a separate announcement, the company advised that Neil Hackett has retired as non-executive director and joint company secretary, effective immediately. Hackett has been with Hastings since 2018 and played a key role in advancing Yangibana. Hastings thanked him for his contributions and wished him well in his future board commitments.

The new CEO is the current Chief Financial & Franchise Officer of the group. Yum! Brands, Inc. announced that its Board of Directors has unanimously elected Chris Turner, 50, as CEO, effective October 1, 2025. Turner, who currently serves as Chief Financial & Franchise Officer for Yum! Brands will succeed current Chief Executive Officer David Gibbs, who, in March 2025, informed the Board of Directors of his intention to retire in the next year after 37 years with the company “I’m deeply honoured to step into the role of CEO at Yum! Brands and incredibly grateful for the opportunity to lead this global company with such iconic brands,” said Turner. “I want to sincerely thank David Gibbs for his exceptional leadership and partnership. I’m excited to build on all that we’ve accomplished together alongside our talented teams and in partnership with our franchisees around the world, as we innovate, grow our brands and continue delivering exceptional experiences for our consumers.” Turner has served as Yum! Brands’ Chief Financial Officer since 2019 and expanded his role to include Chief Franchise Officer in 2024, with responsibilities for finance, corporate strategy, supply chain, franchise standards and support. In recent years, he has been instrumental in driving bold actions that leverage Yum!’s scale, such as accelerating the Company’s digital and technology transformation through initiatives like the establishment of Byte by Yum!, an AI-driven restaurant technology platform; launching a centralized, global Supply Chain Center of Excellence; and the creation of Saucy by KFC, a bold new restaurant concept. He has worked closely with Gibbs and the entire Yum! Brands leadership team to drive growth through unit development, deliver strong shareholder returns and foster a people-first culture of collaboration. Meanwhile, Gibbs served as Yum! Brands’ CEO since January 2020. As CEO, Gibbs was instrumental in architecting and leading the Company’s digital transformation and tripled the pace of Yum! Brands’ annual net new unit development, leading to nearly 61,000 restaurant units worldwide. During Gibbs’ tenure, digital sales surpassed US$30b in 2024, with over 50% of sales through digital channels. Gibbs remains CEO until September 30, 2025, and will serve as an adviser to the Company until the end of 2026 to ensure a seamless transition.