Gilbert Ghostine, born in Lebanon in 1960, obtained his MBA from the Saint Joseph University in Lebanon in 1985. He is currently President, Diageo Asia Pacific and a member of the Global Executive Committee of Diageo. Previously Mr. Ghostine served as Managing Director of Diageo Europe, President of US Major Markets and Managing Director of Eastern and Central Europe, Middle East and Africa for Diageo Venture Markets. Mr Ghostine has worked for Diageo for over 17 years covering leadership roles in Africa, Asia, the US and Europe.

Last year, Diageo Asia-Pacific has recorded net sales of GBP 78 billion, registering a 19% growth compared to its previous fiscal year. This success was driven by both organic growth and M&As. The year 2011 was marked by Diageo's acquisition of a major Chinese spirit company, thus becoming the first foreign company to acquire a substantial Chinese listed firm. Mr. Ghostine was the architect behind this historic deal worth GBP 1.5 billion.

Diageo's strength stems from its brand range across total beverage alcohol (TBA). The company's most famous brands comprise Johnnie Walker, Crown Royal, J&B, Windsor, Buchanan's and Bushmills whiskies, Smirnoff, Ciroc and Ketel One vodkas, Baileys, Captain Morgan, Jose Cuervo, Tanqueray and Guinness.

Click to view videos on Gilbert Ghostine and the Chinese acquisition.

Hope to see you all there!

Best,

The IE Lebanon Club