Ashish Gandham has been appointed Managing Director Suntory Global Spirits – Oceania. According to the company, his appointment reinforces Suntory Oceania’s leadership team as the newly formed business builds scale across the region.
Gandham will be responsible for Suntory Global Spirits’ Oceania operations, overseeing a portfolio that includes premium Japanese whiskies, ready-to-drink brand -196, Jim Beam, Maker’s Mark and Canadian Club.
He will join Suntory Beverage & Food Oceania Chief Executive Officer Dai Minato in leading the newly established multi-beverage company. The formation of Suntory Oceania creates the region’s fourth-largest multi-beverage group, with end-to-end responsibility across premium spirits, ready-to-drink alcoholic beverages, juice, water, soft drinks, coffee, energy and sports drinks.
Gandham will relocate to Sydney with his family and take up the role once all formal arrangements are finalised. He will report to Suntory Global Spirits APAC President Susumu Tada and will serve on the Asia Pacific Leadership Team. He succeeds Mark Hill, who left the business at the end of 2025.
Gandham currently serves as Managing Director, Global Travel Retail, Suntory Global Spirits, based in Singapore. No replacement has yet been appointed for this global travel retail role, a channel which remains “a top priority” for Suntory Global Spirits.
Gandham brings more than 20 years’ experience in the fast-moving consumer goods sector to his new role. He joined Suntory Global Spirits in 2019, following senior positions at Diageo across India, Singapore and London. He began his career at Johnson & Johnson in marketing and sales roles.
“Ashish’s appointment represents an important step for Suntory in Oceania as he leads our growth initiatives in the region,” said Suntory Global Spirits APAC President Susumu Tada. “By uniting our Suntory portfolios and teams, we are well-positioned to enhance our growth and deliver greater value to our customers.”
Commenting on his new role, Gandham said: “It’s a privilege to lead the Suntory team in Oceania at a pivotal time for our business in the region. With a strong local presence and a diverse portfolio of beloved brands, we want to be known for being the best in the industry, and the preferred spirits partner for our customers.
“I’m excited to embark on this new era for Suntory Global Spirits in this vibrant market.” ✈
