Kristin Hughes joined Diageo in November last year having spent almost six years as head of resource circularity at the WEF in Switzerland. While the appointment represents Hughes’ first in beverage alcohol, her career has taken in stints with the likes of Mars Food, Hasbro and Gap, all of which included sustainability-related responsibilities.
Hughes previously spent almost seven years in the US politics field, rising to be the press advance lead for republican Bob Dole’s presidential campaign in 1996.
During her time with the WEF, she “oversaw the organisation’s circular economy platform and representing the Centre for Nature & Climate on the forum’s executive committee”, Diageo said. Hughes will report in to chief sustainability officer Ewan Andrew.
“The depth and wealth of expertise and experience makes her ideal to progress our sustainability strategy,” said Andrew. “I look forward to working closely with Kristin as we accelerate towards building a resilient, sustainable business, and doing our best for people and planet.”
Earlier this month, Diageo announced plans for a trial of aluminium bottles for its Baileys cream liqueur brand. The pilot will run during the first half of this year in three European airports as well as in Germany.
