Energy firm Shell has poached Diageo’s former communications chief to oversee its global strategic communications, while Diageo has also appointed a new leader for its comm functions.
Joining Shell as executive vice president of strategic communications, Dominic Redfearn will be leaving his previous role as global brand and communications director at the international beverage company.
Redfearn will take over from Fran Everts, who previously held the position of executive vice president for corporate and external relations and is now president-director of Shell Netherlands.
In his new role, Redfearn will report to Tony Nunan, chief of staff and corporate relations, and oversee the strategic communications aspect of Shell’s corporate relations function.
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This move comes during a challenging period for Shell and other major oil companies as they face criticism for their slow progress in transitioning away from fossil fuels.
“For eight years I have had the privilege to lead the brilliant communications team at Diageo and know they will continue to provide expert support to the business,”
“I am delighted to be joining Shell later this month and look forward to working with the team as it enables the balanced energy transition the world needs and helps build the net zero energy system of the future.”
Meanwhile, Diageo has named Brendan O’Grady, the current chief communications and marketing officer at Guardian Media Group, as Redfearn’s successor.
O’Grady said: “I am thrilled to be joining Diageo, a business that’s admired all over the world for its commercial success, its expertise in building global brands and its strong sense of purpose.
“I am looking forward to leading Diageo’s global brand and communications team at such an exciting time for the company.”
Global corporate relations director at Diageo Dan Mobley added: “We would like to thank Dom for his extraordinary contribution to Diageo over many years and wish him every happiness for the future.”
He said: “We are delighted to welcome Brendan, who brings with him a wealth of experience from both business and government. Under his leadership, Diageo’s brand and reputation will continue to strengthen.”
