Massasso to exit brand chief's role at The a2 Milk Company

The a2 Milk Company is on the hunt for a new brand leader after confirming its chief growth and brand officer, Susan Massasso, will exit the company in April.

Massasso has spent nearly eight years with a2, initially as chief marketing officer before announcing her plans to step down in 2019. However, following the exit of chief executive, Jayne Hrdlicka, after just one year with a2, Massasso opted to stay on with the ASX-listed business, taking up the position of chief brand and growth officer and gaining consumer insights, global brand management, communication and innovation as part of her remit.

Her work to date at a2 on building the group’s modern and premium brand positioning and supporting significant local and international growth has seen Massasso recognised twice in the CMO50 list of Australia’s most innovative and effective marketing leaders. Prior to a2, Massasso spent 12 years with Campbell Arnott’s in various marketing and divisional roles.

Massasso described her role at The a2 Milk Company as “the role of a lifetime”. She will remain in an advisory capacity to the company but also plans to pursue other advisory and external non-executive director opportunities.

“Being part of such a passionate team and assisting in the development of this extraordinary business has been a privilege,” she commented. “Our leadership position as pioneer of the A2 protein proposition, our distinctive brand and unique company culture are core elements which will support our ongoing growth into the future. I am also looking forward to continuing my involvement with the company in my new capacity in the future.”

In a statement today, a2 CEO, Geoff Babidge, said he was pleased Massasso will continue to be involved in the business supporting the executive leadership committee and support incoming CEO, David Bortolussi.

A2 confirmed Bortolussi, HanesBrands’ former group president of international underwear and activewear business and the former CEO of Pacific Brands before it was sold to Hanes, as its new chief last August after a six-month search.

“Susan has been instrumental in building our brand and business since she joined the company in 2013. With her passion and commercial insight, she has been a key contributor to our success, and we will miss having her in the business,” Babidge said.

Massasso’s official last day is 15 April 2021.  

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