Diageo(US:DEO) Shang Wu Bu Wang Zhan·2025-11-13 03:27Core Viewpoint - Diageo has appointed Dave Lewis, former CEO of Tesco, as its new CEO effective January 1, aiming to restore sales growth after facing criticism from shareholders due to poor performance and a prolonged search for leadership [1][2]. Group 1: Leadership Appointment - Dave Lewis will take over as CEO of Diageo on January 1, succeeding the previous leadership amid shareholder criticism [1]. - Following the announcement, Diageo's stock price surged by 7% during early trading in London [1]. - Lewis previously led Tesco from 2014 to 2020 and has nearly 30 years of experience at Unilever [1]. Group 2: Company Performance and Challenges - Diageo has faced challenges, including a profit warning that led to its stock price hitting a 10-year low [1]. - The company has been criticized by shareholders for its poor performance and the lengthy process of finding a new CEO [1]. Group 3: Leadership Experience and Strategy - Diageo's chairman, John Manzoni, emphasized Lewis's extensive CEO experience and proven leadership skills in building and marketing leading global brands [1]. - Lewis earned the nickname "Dave the Iron Fist" during his 27 years at Unilever, known for cost-cutting and transformation efforts [1]. - At Tesco, he successfully refocused the company on its core UK business through significant price reductions, employee layoffs, and the sale of international operations [1]. Group 4: Compensation - Dave Lewis will receive an annual salary of £1.5 million in his new role at Diageo [2].