Fonterra Co-operative Group Implements New Leadership Structure
Fonterra Co-operative Group has announced permanent changes to its leadership structure, following interim appointments made in April 2026. The company's CEO, Richard Allen, stated that the Co-op is transitioning from a channel-led to a market-led leadership structure. This shift is intended to accelerate progress on strategic delivery and value growth. According to Allen, the previous channel-led approach was effective in establishing momentum in the company's B2B strategy, but the current conditions are favorable for a market-led transition.
With the divestment of Mainland Group now complete, the new leadership structure is expected to initiate a new era of customer-led growth and innovation across Fonterra's global Ingredients and Foodservice channels. The reorganized structure will introduce a single point of sales accountability in each market for both ingredients and foodservice performance. This will be supported by a global growth and strategy team, tasked with ensuring that the farmers' milk accesses the highest value demand globally.
The newly appointed leaders include Teh-han Chow as CEO Greater China, responsible for leading Fonterra's Ingredients and Foodservice operations in the region. Gaby Amade has been named president of Global Markets, overseeing the company's ingredients and foodservice businesses across Oceania, the Americas, Southeast Asia, Japan, the Middle East, and Europe. Elisa Giusti has taken on the role of chief Growth and Strategy Officer, accountable for developing integrated market, product, and group strategies, as well as portfolio optimization, innovation, and global new business development.
The changes are part of a strategy that remains unchanged and builds on Fonterra's strong foundations. According to Allen, the reorganization enhances the company's pace of delivery, focus, and accountability. Giusti's appointment took effect on June 15, with the rest of the leadership structure changes coming into effect from August 3, 2026.
