Fonterra Mainland Group MD to depart

Fonterra Co-operative Group says that René Dedoncker will be leaving his position as managing director of its global markets consumer division, Mainland Group, to take up a position outside of Fonterra. This business has recently been sold to Lactalis.

René Dedoncker has been with the co-op since 2005 and has held several global leadership positions during that time, including leading the Mainland Group business since March 2025. Prior to this role, he was a member of the Fonterra management team as well as managing director of the global consumer and foodservice segment.

René has also led Fonterra’s Australian business, including through its merger with Fonterra Brands New Zealand to form Fonterra Oceania, and has held leadership roles within the foodservice business as well.

Dedoncker has a six month notice period and has indicated his willingness to continue leading Mainland Group through the completion of the divestment transaction and its transition to Lactalis ownership.