Lion announces new marketing leader

Following an extensive global search, Lion has appointed a Consumer and Brand Director to run marketing for Australia and lead the Consumer Global Centre of Excellence across Australia, New Zealand, the US and UK. 

Anubha Sahasrabuddhe will return to Australia after more than 20 years in global marketing leadership roles across North America and Asia Pacific and commence in her new position early in 2021. 

Lion Australia Managing Director James Brindley said: “This is an exciting appointment for Lion after such a challenging year. I can’t wait to see the energy and passion that Anubha will undoubtedly bring to Lion in ensuring we can connect with consumers in the most meaningful way possible.

“Born and raised just outside of Sydney, Sahasrabuddhe will return to Australia after a truly global career that saw her live in eight cities over the past 17 years. This world-wide perspective will be invaluable to Lion as the company focuses on the rebound of the adult beverages sector in 2021 following the heavy impact of COVID-19 restrictions during 2020,” Brindley said.

Sahasrabuddhe joins Lion from Mars, where she is currently Global Vice President of Chocolate and has had a number of senior positions including Global Vice President, Wrigley in the US and China.

Prior to her career at Mars and Wrigley, Sahasrabuddhe spent considerable time with Coca-Cola in New Zealand, Hong Kong, China and the Philippines.

A passionate marketer, Sahasrabuddhe has an impressive track record of building strong brands and communication campaigns to deliver category and portfolio growth. 

Anubha Sahasrabuddhe said: “I feel privileged to have been chosen to lead the consumer thinking for Lion and oversee its portfolio of household name brands. When you think of brands like XXXX, Tooheys, Furphy and James Squire, you are transported immediately to life’s sociable moments. I look forward to taking these brands into the future, whilst also bringing Lion’s innovation and NPD strategy to life to meet consumer demand for new adult beverages in new growth markets.”