Australian beer and wine company Foster's Group Ltd. said on April 13 that John Murphy was appointed managing director of its Carlton & United Beverages beer division, according to Dow Jones. Murphy has most recently been vice president of marketing and sales at CUB, and over 24 years has held a variety of roles across finance, administration, operations and procurement, the company said.

Last month, Foster's promoted the head of CUB, Trevor O'Hoy, to chief executive of the entire company. O'Hoy said Murphy's appointment reflects a strategy of strong focus on margins; core brands, particularly in the premium segment; maximization of operational efficiencies; and returns from existing operations.

13 April, 2004