Brewer, Scottish & Newcastle (S&N), has announced a series of organisational changes within the group, including splitting itself from two operating divisions into four – enabling it to better focus on brand building and customer relations.

A new France division will be led by Didier Lefèvre, while a Greater Europe and USA division will be led by John Nicolson.

Nicolson who will also be responsible for growing business in S&N’s eastern European markets, including the group’s interests in Baltic Beverages Holding (BBH).

There will also be a new Asian development markets division, to be led by John Hunt, which will have particular focus on developing partnerships in India.

The UK division will remain unchanged and continue to be led by John Dunsmore.

Commenting on the changes, chief executive Tony Froggatt, said: “This is an important step in enabling S&N to optimise the potential of our great brands and get closer to our customers and consumers.

“The changes will strengthen our focus and will improve the quality and integration of functional support for each business in all our key markets.”

The new structure will take effect from 28 June. Details: www.scottish-newcastle.com