CMO50 alumni member becomes first chief executive in the WA dairy producer's 135-year history
Brownes Dairy marketing and sales chief, Natalie Sarich-Dayton, has been promoted to the CEO’s post, becoming the company’s first female leader in its 135-year history.
The CMO50 alumni member, who was recognised in the list for outstanding marketing leadership in 2019 and 2020, takes up the CEO reins following the departure of CEO, Tony Girgis, after a 14-year tenure. His time as CEO saw Brownes Dairy change ownership and bring back traditional cheddar cheese to West Australian supermarkets.
Sarich-Dayton has been with Brownes Dairy since 2013, joining as marketing director. She boasts of 20 years’ experience in the food and beverage industry, including brand and management roles with Coca-Cola, Danone, HJ Heinz and Unilever across the UK and Australia.
During her time with the dairy business, she’s driven innovations such as the ‘Milkos’ home delivery service during COVID-19 lockdowns, launched the world’s first top-down yoghurt bottle, upped the ante on corporate social responsibility, helped with sustainability initiatives and more.
“Brownes Dairy is a remarkable company with a thirst for product and brand innovation,” Sarich-Dayton commented. “Everyone in the business genuinely believes in our mission of ‘doing dairy better, together’, and I’m excited to take the reins as CEO and continue our tradition of nourishing Australian families with the best range of high-quality dairy products.
“It’s crucial WA business take a leading role in promoting more women to leadership positions, and I’m honoured that Brownes has entrusted me with this vital role. The pandemic has reminded us about the role we all can play in keeping our communities, including our businesses, authentically connected.”
For his part, Girgis said he has enjoyed working with Sarich-Dayton during his years and CEO and managing director.
“I believe she is an inspired choice as the company’s new CEO who will continue to bring success to WA’s favourite dairy,” he added.
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