Gilbert Ghostine, Diageo’s President for India and Greater China, has quit the company.

Also, Anand Kripalu, CEO of the company’s subsidiary United Spirits, has been inducted as a member of the executive committee of parent Diageo.

In a series of announcements made on Wednesday, Diageo said it has made changes to its executive committee which build on the changes made earlier in the year and further enhance its in-market accountability, which will be key to delivery of the company’s performance ambition, a press statement from the company said.

Sam Fischer, currently managing director of Diageo Greater China, will join the executive committee as President, Diageo Greater China and Asia. Both Fischer and Kripalu will report to Nick Blazquez, President, Diageo Africa and Asia-Pacific. These appointments will be effective as of September 1, 2014. In addition to his current responsibility as President of Diageo Western Europe, John Kennedy will also take responsibility for Russia, Eastern Europe and Turkey as President, Diageo Europe.

Ghostine, who was also the company’s chief development officer, has accepted a role outside Diageo and will be leaving the organisation on September 30, 2014, the beverage major said. Ghostine has been with Diageo for 19 years in a number of roles.

Ivan Menezes, Chief Executive, said the changes signal a further shift in Diageo from an organisation based on regions to one which puts accountability in its markets. “In addition, they strengthen our executive team and enhance our focus on two key growth markets, China and India. I congratulate Sam and Anand on their promotion to the executive committee and look forward to seeing the further impact which Nick and John will have on Diageo’s performance given their new and wider roles.

“In his time with Diageo, Gilbert has provided strong leadership to many areas of our business across North America, Europe, Africa, the Middle East and Asia-Pacific. We wish him all the very best for the future.”

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