Diageo North America appoints Catherine Jessup as Chief Financial Officer

Diageo, the world’s leading spirits, wine and beer company announced yesterday that it has appointed Catherine Jessup as Chief Financial Officer for Diageo North America. In this role, Jessup will lead Diageo North America’s finance function effective August 14th. Jessup succeeds Deirdre Mahlan who was promoted to a global position within Diageo Plc.

“Cathy’s international experience and strategic acumen coupled with her leadership experience make her a tremendous asset to the company,” said Nick Rose, Chief Financial Officer, Diageo Plc. “In addition, Cathy’s strong financial background in consumer products will make a huge contribution to Diageo North America.”

For the past 12 years, Jessup has been responsible for accounting and control, planning and forecasting, tax, treasury, cash management, risk management and investor relations at The Topps Company, reporting directly to the CEO. During that time, she helped lead a turnaround of the business and played a major role in the financial restructuring of the company. She also formalized and expanded the planning and forecasting processes at Topps and managed the financial integration of a key acquisition.

Prior to joining The Topps Company, Jessup was with PepsiCo, Inc. for 13 years. During her time there, she served as Chief Financial Officer for PepsiCo Wines & Spirits, where she had full responsibility for the finance function of the spirits importing division.

“Cathy brings terrific financial, analytical and strategic experience and leadership to this critical role in North America. We are delighted to have her join the team,” said Ivan Menezes, President & CEO, Diageo North America.

Jessup will report to Nick Rose, and she will serve as a member of the Diageo North American Executive Team.