Diageo announces death of former CEO Sir Ivan Menezes after brief illness

Diageo has announced its former CEO Sir Ivan Menezes has passed away at the age of 63.

In a statement this morning, the spirits and beer company said: "It is with great sadness that Diageo announces that Sir Ivan Menezes has passed away following a brief illness, with his family at his side."

Diageo chairman Javier Ferrán said: "This is an incredibly sad day. Ivan was undoubtedly one of the finest leaders of his generation.

"Ivan was there at the creation of Diageo and over 25 years, shaped Diageo to become one of the best performing, most trusted and respected consumer companies. I saw first-hand his steadfast commitment to our people and to creating a culture that enabled everyone to thrive. He invested his time and energy in people at every level of the company and saw potential that others may have overlooked. This is one of many reasons why he was beloved by our employees, past and present."

He added the company was "truly privileged to have had the opportunity to work alongside such a thoughtful and passionate colleague and friend" and said that the company's thoughts and sympathies are with Menezes' family.

Menezes joined Diageo, which owns brands including Johnnie Walker, Smirnoff, and Tanqueray, when it formed in 1997 and has spent more than 25 years in senior positions. He was appointed CEO in 2013 and was knighted for his services to business and equality in the King's 2023 New Year Honours list.

Earlier this week, the drinks company announced the appointment of Debra Crew as interim chief executive with immediate effect while Menezes was undergoing hospital treatment. Crew was due to take over as head of the firm from 1 July when Sir Ivan Menezes was set to retire after a decade in the role.