FOSTER'S Group Limited has appointed former Diageo Asia-Pacific...

FOSTER'S Group Limited has appointed former Diageo Asia-Pacific boss John Pollaers to run its beer, cider and spirits division, Carlton & United Brewers.

Mr Pollaers will replace Alex Stevens, who quit in December due to ill health after just nine months in the role.

As managing director of CUB, Mr Pollaers will report to chief executive Ian Johnston, who has been overseeing the CUB business while the search was under way for a permanent appointment.

Mr Pollaers, who will commence his new role on April 7, was described by the company as having "extensive experience in the alcohol beverages industry across Australia, Asia-Pacific and Europe".

His most recent role was president of the Asia-Pacific division of Diageo, owner of the Smirnoff, Johnnie Walker and Guinness brands -- the last of which is produced in Australia under licence by Foster's.

Mr Pollaers has also held the role of Asia managing director and head of Diageo's Australian business, and was an officer in the Royal Australian Navy from 1981 to 1989.

"I am excited to welcome someone of John's calibre to the executive leadership team," Mr Johnston said.

"John is well known and respected in the Australian market and has a proven track record."

Mr Pollaers holds a masters degree in business administration from Macquarie University and electrical engineering and computer science degrees from the University of NSW.