David McNeil leaves Campbell Arnott's

Campbell Arnott’s chief marketing officer, David McNeil, has left the FMCG giant after a six-year stint.

The experienced marketing leader confirmed to CMO he made the decision after the 15-month-long divestiture of Campbell’s international business and Arnott’s to KKR for $3.2 billion came to a close in December, opening up his chance to explore new career opportunities.

“I’ve had six fabulous years as the CMO of this fabulous business, culminating in a highly rewarding and ultimately successful sale process,” he said. “My extensive role in the divestment has opened my mind to many new opportunities in Australia and abroad, which I am very excited to pursue.

“And there’s no better time than the beginning of a new decade to do just that.”

McNeil hoped to be able to share details about his next career move shortly. Meantime, he confirmed his 2IC, Michelle Foley, has now stepped up to lead marketing at Campbell Arnott’s.

McNeil initially joined Campbell Arnott’s as its chief marketing officer for Asia-Pacific, before being given an extended international role in April 2018 with an emphasis on global expansion. His work to build and innovate the group’s many brands, including Arnott’s, Tim Tams, Shapes and Campbell’s stock and soups, earnt him 9th position in the CMO50 list of Australia’s most innovative and effective marketers in 2019.  

Prior to Campbell Arnott’s, McNeil spent nine years with Unilever, in roles including GM and SVP of the skin category for Asia, Africa, Middle East and Turkey based out of Singapore; deputy CEO and CMO for A/NZ; and VP of marketing the foods business. His resume also includes marketing roles with Lion, Optus and Colgate Palmolive.

Foley has spent more than 14 years with Campbell Arnott’s herself, most recently as marketing director for the core snacking business in A/NZ. She also previously worked in brand management for Faulding Consumer.

Under the terms of the deal struck with KRR, the company now owns the Arnott’s brand as well as exclusive rights to use certain Campbell’s brands in Australia, New Zealand and certain Asia-Pacific markets. These include V8, Chunky, Prego and Campbell’s Real Stock. It also acquired the manufacturing sites in Australia, Malaysia and Indonesia.

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