In this role, the Australian business continues to report through to Swales.
Dedoncker started his career with Fonterra in 2005, in the Australian foodservice business. He has more than 20 years’ experience and held domestic and global roles at Fonterra and the Mars Corporation.
Most recently, Dedoncker has been Fonterra acting managing director global brands and nutrition.
Swales said the appointment of Dedoncker was the right choice for the Australian business.
“René has been with the co-op for 10 years and is well-known for his strategic agility and leadership style, having led our global foodservice business, where he transformed the business into a successful, global model,” Swales said.
“Our Australian business has made great progress on its turnaround.
“We’ve got the right strategy and with the support of a strong and experienced leadership team, René will continue to deliver on the strategic plan that will see the business return to profit.”
Dedoncker starts his role immediately and will be based in the company’s Australian office in Melbourne.
Fonterra Australia cut its season price from $5.60 a kilogram of milk solids to $5kg MS last month.
