Newly appointed Saputo CEO Carl Colizza has initiated restructuring within his executive team, notably including the introduction of a new Chief Operating Officer (COO) and a Chief Commercial Officer.
Colizza assumed the roles of both President and CEO of the renowned Canadian dairy firm on August 9, transitioning from his previous positions as President and COO of Saputo’s North American division. His appointment follows the departure of Lino Saputo Jr., who assumed a new role providing “strategic oversight” for the broader management team within the company.
In an announcement on September 10, the company disclosed that Frank Guido has been promoted to serve as COO, assuming responsibility for overseeing Saputo’s global operations, which include North America, Europe, and the international divisions. Previously, Guido held the position of President and COO of Saputo’s U.S. dairy unit. Under this new structure, all divisional presidents and COOs will report directly to him.
Additionally, a new role for a Chief Commercial Officer has emerged, which will be filled by Leanne Cutts. Before this appointment, she managed Saputo’s European and international operations in her capacity as divisional president and COO.
Replacing Guido as the President and COO of the U.S. dairy division is Dominick Bombino, who rises from the position of Senior Vice President of Sales. Simultaneously, in the UK, Steve Douglas will take on the role of Regional President and COO of Dairy. Douglas previously served as Senior Vice President of Operations and Supply Chain for the U.S. dairy division.
Douglas’s appointment comes as Tom Atherton steps down from his role as President and COO of the UK division to explore other opportunities. Atherton had been with the company since 2005, including his tenure since Saputo acquired Dairy Crest in 2019. He plans to remain until the end of the year to facilitate a smooth transition.
“This team is proven, deeply capable, and prepared to set the course for our continued success,” stated Colizza. He emphasized that each of these accomplished executives has significantly contributed to the company’s trajectory, and their expanded roles will be critical for driving long-term growth and operational excellence across the organization.
For reference, Saputo reported revenues of C$17.3 billion ($12.7 billion) in its 2024 fiscal year but saw a decline in net income to C$265 million, down from C$622 million the previous year. In the first quarter of the new financial year ending June, revenue rose by 9.5% to C$4.6 billion, although net profit remained flat at C$142 million. The company’s next set of results will be available on November 7, which will be crucial for stakeholders monitoring key trends within the food and beverage industry.
In summary, Colizza’s strategic appointments come amidst evolving conditions in the food and drink business sector. With the continuous adaptation to food and drink consumer trends, these leadership changes are aimed at solidifying Saputo’s position in the market and ensuring sustained operational excellence.
