Asahi’s Chief Supply Chain Officer, Sandra Gibbs is the Embrace Difference Council’s new Chair for 2022, stepping into the position after having led the See Difference workstream to finalise all levels of the toolkit through 2021.
The Drinks Association’s CEO, Georgia Lennon, says: “Sandra has already inspired those who have had the opportunity to work with her on the Embrace Difference Council. She has taken the lead of the See Difference workstream, working hard with the team last year to move things forward and deliver all four levels of the Toolkit industry-wide.
“Sandra is generous with her time, her insights and guidance, and we are incredibly fortunate that she has agreed to take on the role of Chair of the Embrace Difference Council. It is hard to think of anyone more suited to continuing the evolution of the drinks industry into the diverse, inclusive and equitable sector that we are ambitious for it to be.”
A long-time champion for gender equity in the workplace, as well as for change, diversity and inclusivity, Ms Gibbs says, “It’s an absolute privilege to be working with the Drinks Association on this critical strategy – I’ve experienced the benefit of being involved in the Drink’s programmes throughout my own career and am looking forward to continuing to build on the great work that has been done for the industry.”
Ms Gibbs has worked in the drinks industry for more than 20 years and leads the Asahi Supply Oceania team – the largest beverage supply footprint in ANZ covering brewing, manufacturing, logistics, planning, quality, NPD, operational excellence, strategy and technical platforms for growth. She has led significant transformation programs, harnessed the power of people along the way and connected those she has worked alongside with career opportunities and professional development.
Ms Gibbs also sponsors the Asahi Oceania Diversity and Inclusion committee – a key driver to engaging and retaining talent within the business.
The new lead of the See Difference workstream will be announced in the coming weeks.