She joins from Diageo’s southern Europe business where she served as marketing director for the past five years, during which she spearheaded the revival of the Johnnie Walker brand.
Prior to her time with the drinks firm, Mejía Melgar held a number of senior marketing roles across several food and beverage companies, including AM Fresh Group, Mondelez International and Nestlé.
Commenting on her appointment, she said: “I’m really looking forward to getting started in GB and contributing to a market that’s known for putting brands at the heart of culture.
Experience and passion
“I’m proud of what we achieved in southern Europe, and I’m excited to bring some of that experience and passion to the table – working closely with both internal teams and external partners to keep shaping our industry.”
Mejía Melgar’s new role will see her responsible for brand strategy, innovation, and market execution to drive growth, relevance, and long-term equity across key categories.
Diageo GB managing director Nuno Teles added: “We are incredibly excited to welcome Ursula to Diageo’s home market. In GB, we’re proud to be custodians to some of the country’s most loved brands, and Ursula’s arrival puts their future in extremely safe hands.”
Movers and shakers
News of Mejía Melgar joining the GB business comes as it welcomes Barry O’Sullivan as its new managing director.
O’Sullivan, who served as the MD and chair of Diageo Ireland since April 2021, will take up his new role on 1 July. Current Diageo GB boss Nuno Teles will move on to take up the role of MD for Diageo Mexico after three years working in the UK.
Meanwhile, in other appointment news, the Compleat Food Group has appointed its first chief operating officer.
Brian Byrne will take up the newly created role on 1 May 2025 and has been tasked with strengthening the group’s leadership team and operational capabilities, while also supporting its growth strategy.
