Nespresso New Zealand managing director, Stefan Vermeulen is stepping into the role of Nespresso Oceania managing director, effective 1 July, 2023.
He succeeds Jean-Marc Dragoli who has been appointed global had of Nespresso authorised brands, based in Switzerland, after four years leading the Oceania business from Australia.
Vermeulen brings a wealth of brand knowledge and local experience, having held leadership roles within Nespressofor more than 12 years, including three years leading the team in New Zealand and four years as head of Nespresso Australia’s professional business.
Under Dragoli’s leadership, the market has benefitted from the launch of new product innovations and services from Australian-inspired coffee blends to greater personalisation and expanded delivery services. His prioritisation of local sustainability initiatives has also helped the business deliver on its B Corp commitments.
Key projects include a kerbside recycling trial, a new Recycling Rewards pilot, the launch of the company’s first Australian StartCup Challenge supporting circular start-ups and SMEs, and a partnership with Greening Australia.
Current Nespresso Oceania managing director, Jean-Marc Dragoli.
Vermeulen has also driven strong growth for New Zealand business with the launch of the Vertuo system in 2021, the expansion of Nespresso’s coffee range, and local sustainability initiatives including reforestation projects, supporting educational programs around the circular economy, and strengthening the local recycling program.
Sharing his vision for the business in 2023 and beyond, Vermeulen said, “We truly believe that coffee can be a force for good for people, communities and planet and the more we drive sustainable growth, the more we can have a positive impact as a brand and organisation through the entire value chain.
“For Australians and New Zealanders, coffee plays such an important role in their lives so delivering exceptional coffee experiences based on an obsession for uncompromised in cup quality is paramount. Nespressooften leans into and learns from the rich coffee culture and behaviours of this market to drive innovation for the benefit of customers around the world, which we saw with the launch of the Original Line Creatista machine in partnership with Breville.
“There are more exciting innovations to come, particularly within our Vertuo system, that will reimagine how coffee can be enjoyed at home and in the workplace in the region. Sustainability will also remain at the core of our strategy, as we explore new ways to engage more consumers with our recycling program and introduce initiatives that will help us on our journey towards net zero and improve as a B Corp.”
Welcoming Vermeulen to the role, Dragoli said, “Having led and built relationships with our teams on both sides of the Tasman over the last seven years, Stefan has already established a strong foundation for success in the Oceania market. He has a deep understanding of the local coffee culture, our customer preferences and the nuances that exist in each market. I have no doubt he will lead will do great things in this role, leading with our employees, customers and business partners front of mind.”