Suntory Beverage & Food Oceania Appoints New Sales Director for New ZealandSuntory Beverage & Food Oceania Appoints New Sales Director for New Zealand Suntory Beverage & Food Oceania (SBFO) has announced the appointment of Deb Cooper as its new Sales Director in New Zealand. Cooper joins the company as it prepares for the launch of its $3 billion partnership with Suntory Global Spirits under the name Suntory Oceania. Responsibilities and Plans Cooper will lead the New Zealand sales team and manage the non-alcoholic beverage portfolio, including iconic brands such as V Energy, Suntory Boss Coffee, and Gatorade. Among her key responsibilities will be overseeing the upcoming exclusive launch of Celsius, a popular US energy drink, in September. Background and Experience Cooper brings over a decade of experience in the Suntory sector, having held roles in various channels, including supermarket, leisure, and on-route. Her most recent position was Head of Petrol & Convenience at SBFO in Australia. Cooper also has a strong track record in leadership at global businesses such as Drinkworks and Fonterra. Statement from Brad Erceg Brad Erceg, CEO of SBFO Oceania, expressed his enthusiasm for Cooper’s appointment: “Deb’s exceptional leadership, customer-focused approach, and energy have been instrumental in the growth of our business in Australia. Her extensive FMCG experience positions her well to drive growth and innovation in New Zealand.” Suntory Oceania Partnership The Suntory Oceania partnership is expected to launch in Australia in mid-2025 and in New Zealand from January 2026. The partnership aims to consolidate the companies’ beverages and spirits businesses, leveraging their combined strengths to enhance product offerings and distribution capabilities.
Suntory Beverage & Food Oceania, a leading beverage manufacturer, has announced Deb Cooper as its new Sales Director in New Zealand.
Cooper’s appointment comes as the company works towards the launch of its new $3 billion partnership, Suntory Oceania, with sister company Suntory Global Spirits.
“I am excited to be joining the thriving commercial team in New Zealand and look forward to fostering new partnerships and working with our customers to drive innovation and shape strategic growth,” said Cooper.
Cooper will be responsible for the New Zealand sales team and will manage the non-alcoholic range, working with iconic brands including V Energy, Suntory Boss Coffee and Gatorade.
Cooper’s appointment comes ahead of the exclusive launch of US energy giant Celsius, which she calls a “game changer”.
“This provides an opportunity to strengthen our position in the category and demonstrate the expertise and leadership we have across the energy segment. We look forward to launching this new product in New Zealand in September,” Cooper said.
Cooper has been active in the Suntory sector for over a decade and has an impressive track record across the supermarket, leisure and on-route channels.
Her most recent role was Head of Petrol & Convenience (P&C) at Suntory Beverage & Food in Australia.
Leading teams at global businesses Drinkworks and Fonterra, Deb brings her extensive knowledge and passion for the industry to the New Zealand market.
According to Brad Erceg, CEO of Suntory Beverage & Food Oceania, Ms Cooper’s appointment is a great achievement for the company and its customers in New Zealand.
“Deb’s exceptional leadership, customer-focused approach and energy have seen our business in Australia go from strength to strength, transforming category growth and delivering unparalleled recognition within the P&C channel. Her extensive FMCG experience positions her well to drive growth and innovation in this market,” Erceg said.
The Suntory Oceania partnership will launch in Australia in mid-2025 and in New Zealand from January 2026.
Suntory Oceania appoints NZ sales director to lead non-alcohol portfolio
