DrinkWise has announced that its current Marketing Director, Simon Strahan, will be promoted to Chief Executive, replacing John Scott.

Last month TheShout revealed that Scott would be leaving DrinkWise after 10 years with the organisation. DrinkWise Chair, Neil Comrie AO, APM said he was delighted to Strahan make the step up into the Chief Executive role.

“On behalf of the DrinkWise Board, I am very pleased to announce Simon as the new Chief Executive of DrinkWise,” Comrie said.

“After an extensive search and interview process, the Board-appointed recruitment committee selected a candidate from within the organisation. Simon joined DrinkWise in 2014 as Marketing Director and has made a significant contribution to the organisation’s strategy and marketing since that time, including the ‘You won’t miss a moment if you DrinkWise’ initiative and partnerships with Uber and sporting codes.”

Strahan, an accomplished marketing strategist has had a 20-year career encompassing social marketing, strategy and innovation for high profile Australian and international brands, such as Cotton On and Australia Post, as well as government agencies, including the Transport Accident Commission.

Strahan said he is looking forward to continuing DrinkWise’s ground-breaking work to help bring about a healthier and safer drinking culture in Australia.

“I’m excited to lead the organisation at a time when its innovative approach to behavioural change is making a real difference in the community. The current trends showing more moderate consumption are encouraging, but we also recognise there’s a continuing need to focus on those at risk of harm from alcohol.”

Comrie also acknowledged Scott’s contribution in elevating the organisation to its current status.

“John has left a significant and enduring legacy to this organisation,” Comrie said.

“With over 10 years association with the organisation as a supplier, non-executive Community Board member, Chair of the Social Marketing Committee and as Chief Executive – I can speak for the entire Board, including our alcohol industry contributors, in acknowledging his leadership and commitment to bringing about a safer and healthier drinking culture. We wish John and his family all the best for the future.”

Reflecting on the organisation’s current work, Mr Comrie added: “Through its ground-breaking work, DrinkWise has developed into the pre-eminent organisation effectively promoting moderation among Australians.

“Today, we are seeing a society much more attuned to drinking responsibly – and DrinkWise can proudly point to its contribution in effecting this change in a way that makes sense to Australians.”

Andy Young

Andy joined Intermedia as Editor of The Shout in 2015, writing news on a daily basis and also writing features for National Liquor News. Now Managing Editor of both The Shout and Bars and Clubs.

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