Australia’s liquor retail industry is an incredibly diverse landscape, from pioneering new trends to upholding time-honoured traditions. But beyond the brands and products, it is the individuals within this industry whose passion and dedication create such a dynamic market.
In each instalment of our ‘Five minutes with…’ series, National Liquor News puts the spotlight on a key figure in the industry, sharing a glimpse into their personality and the experiences that underpin their achievements.
Each fortnight, we will dive into the professional accomplishments and unique perspectives of our industry’s dynamic leaders, uncovering their personal stories of success.
This week, we sat down with Anubha Sahasrabuddhe, who was appointed the newly-created leadership role of Chief Growth & Commercial Officer at Lion in February last year.
NLN: How long have you been with Lion, and can you share a bit about your journey to becoming Chief Growth & Commercial Officer?
AS: I’ve been at Lion for 3.5 years – I started my career in marketing at The Coca-Cola Company and had the privilege of living and working in many different countries with Coke and then Mars in local, regional and global roles across Asia and North America. It’s been an incredibly satisfying adventure allowing me to learn vastly different cultures, categories and challenges that have really shaped my approach to business.
NLN: What are some of the key milestones or lessons in your career that have shaped your understanding of the industry?
AS: Stay curious – don’t drink the kool-aid and keep your radar up. I have not been in the ‘alcohol industry’ for a long time and so for me, asking questions and talking to people that have done it for far longer than me have been instrumental in helping me learn – having James Brindley as our Managing Director is like having the keys to a secret vault of industry knowledge – how lucky am I.
NLN: How do/will you ensure Lion stays ahead of industry trends and changes?
AS: The consumer is the boss – we try not to lose sight of that – it keeps us grounded and reminds us that getting it right means listening and responding to consumer needs.
How do we seek to stay ahead? We are passionate about getting underneath the why of what is happening – looking for those cultural clues and signals that can unearth new insights and opportunities, whether that is in brands, customers or technologies – we are nowhere near where we need to be, but we have a deep commitment if we are going to ensure the industry stays vibrant and relevant for generations to come.
NLN: As the Chief Growth & Commercial Officer at Lion, what are your ambitions for the year ahead?
AS: I subscribe to the theory of not doing things perfectly but doing them better.
The current environment is not easy – for our consumers, our customers and our people. Navigating that in a way that ensures our brands are accessible, our partners are thriving, and our people have a runway for growth are key in my mind.
Our ambition is for Lion Australia to continue to be better – have our brands be more loved and chosen, be the trusted partner of choice for our customers and to continue to identify and build the future leaders of our industry.
NLN: What keeps you inspired?
AS: I love a good comeback story. It’s why I joined Lion. The business has an extraordinary history and is so intertwined into our culture, and like any good story, it’s had its share of ups and downs. The opportunity to be part of leading a team to reshape this business for the future is incredibly motivating and inspiring.
NLN: Outside of work, what hobbies do you have, or how do you enjoy your spare time?
AS: I get out my aggression in the gym with a trainer, training keeps me sane, aware of my limitations and pushes me beyond my comfort zone. It sets up the day like nothing else can.
I love to read, American politics, anything biographical, sports coaching and serial killers. I binge watch anything reality, I’m a reality tragic and the trashier the better.
I travel when I can but being in Australia makes it harder as it’s so far away and I must be better planned.
