Ireland: Diageo announced on April 28 that Brian Duffy, Managing Director of Diageo Ireland, has been appointed Guinness Global Brand Director, responsible for the growth and development of the Guinness brand world-wide. He also becomes Chairman of Diageo Ireland where he will continue to play a leadership and representation role in the drinks industry in Ireland. Commenting on his new appointment, Brian Duffy said, 'I have thoroughly enjoyed my five years as Managing Director of Diageo Ireland. This new role gives me stewardship of Ireland’s most iconic brand, which is a fantastic opportunity. I look forward to helping build the success of Guinness in markets around the world.'

Diageo also announced the appointment of Michael Ioakimides as Managing Director of Diageo Ireland, effective from 1 July 2004. Michael has been based in Ireland for the past two years, most recently as Commercial Director. He previously held roles as Managing Director of Diageo Italy and Diageo Poland, and in Group Strategy.

Africa: Jon Potter, currently Guinness Global Brand Director has been appointed Commercial Director, Diageo Africa, effective from 1 May 2004. In his new role which reflects Diageo commitment to continued growth in Africa, Jon will have responsibility for the Diageo Africa Marketing Team and Sales Development and will lead the commercial teams supporting third party spirits and licensed brewing in Africa.

North America: James Thompson, currently Senior Vice President, Smirnoff and Captain Morgan, Diageo North America, has been appointed President, Global and North American Marketing, Smirnoff and Captain Morgan as from 1 May. In his expanded role, James will have responsibility for leading and growing these two global priority brands world-wide while continuing to oversee the development of these brands in their largest market, North America. James Thompson said, 'I'm looking forward to building on the excellent track record of Smirnoff and Captain Morgan and helping to lead the delivery of growth on the business.'

Diageo is the world's leading premium drinks business. With its global vision, and local marketing focus, Diageo brings to consumers an outstanding collection of beverage alcohol brands across the spirits, wine and beer categories including Smirnoff, Guinness, Johnnie Walker, Baileys, J&B, Cuervo, Captain Morgan and Tanqueray, and Beaulieu Vineyard and Sterling Vineyards wines. Diageo trades in some 180 countries around the world and is listed on both the New York Stock Exchange (DEO) and the London Stock Exchange (DGE).

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