British American Tobacco Announces Key Management Board Changes

On July 14, 2025, British American Tobacco p.l.c. (BAT) announced significant changes to its Management Board, marking a pivotal transition within the company. Michael Dijanosic, the Regional Director for Asia Pacific, Middle East, and Africa (APMEA), will step down from his role and the Management Board effective December 31, 2025. This decision allows him to dedicate more time to personal pursuits, particularly family and friends.

Pascale Meulemeester has been appointed as the new Regional Director Designate for APMEA, effective September 1, 2025. She will officially assume the role of Regional Director and join the Management Board on January 1, 2026. Meulemeester currently serves as President of Western Europe at Barry Callebaut Group, a leading global chocolate and cocoa organization. Her extensive background includes leadership roles focused on growth acceleration, transformation, and business turnarounds across multiple regions, including the Asia-Pacific. Prior to her tenure at Barry Callebaut, Meulemeester worked for Mars Inc. and Sara Lee.

Tadeu Marroco, Chief Executive of BAT, expressed gratitude towards Dijanosic for his contributions to the company, stating, "I would like to thank Michael for his significant contribution to the APMEA Region through the end of this year, as well as for his many valuable contributions to the Group throughout his career at BAT. We wish him and his family all the very best for the future." He further commented on the strategic importance of Meulemeester's appointment, noting her record of leading change and driving performance. Marroco emphasized that her experience in the consumer goods sector would bring valuable insights to the APMEA region, supporting BAT's strategic transformation efforts.

This management transition occurs at a time when BAT is undergoing significant changes as part of its commitment to a sustainable future. The company has been actively pursuing its vision of "A Better Tomorrow™," which focuses on reducing harm associated with its products and embracing a broader portfolio of reduced-risk alternatives. Meulemeester's leadership is expected to contribute to this vision, aligning with the company's ongoing initiatives in sustainability and innovation.

In conclusion, the management board changes at BAT reflect a strategic move towards fostering inclusive corporate governance and enhancing the company's response to evolving market dynamics. With Meulemeester's leadership, BAT aims to strengthen its position in the APMEA region while continuing to prioritize its commitments to sustainability and innovation in the tobacco industry.