Each issue of Food & Drink Business, we ask an industry leader about their working life. In our October edition, we talked to Andrew Leakey, general manager of Mars Wrigley Australia.
1. Tell us about your current role.
I’m the general manager of Mars Wrigley Australia and I reckon I have the best job in the world.
Like any GM, my role is quite diverse and touches all parts of the business, however broadly speaking, I am responsible for the domestic growth and innovation of our Mars Wrigley business in Australia, our export and supply to other MarsWrigley businesses overseas, and am on the board of Mars Australia.
I’m very lucky within my role at a company like Mars, as my remit is much more than just performance and growth. It spans across people and developing exceptional talent, sustainability, and the positive impact we have on our local communities; our broader purpose of inspiring moments of happiness across the country, and championing our inclusion and diversity work, which is something that is very important to me.
2. What has been your greatest achievement to date?
I would have to highlight two achievements that I am particularly proud of.
I have a passion for people and helping them to be at their best, so am incredibly proud of the number of associates I have coached, mentored and line managed who, over the years, have gone on to bigger and better things within Mars – many successful overseas postings have helped to build a pipeline for future talent out of Australia, New Zealand, and India.
I mentioned India above, and I had the pleasure of living and working there with Mars for four years, helping open the very first Mars Chocolate factory in Pune, India. We opened using Mars’ signature design principles and quality standards combined with local capability and a can do attitude. This is an extremely proud moment for me as at the time, many said it couldn’t be done.
3. What was your biggest mistake and what did you learn?
I have made many, so it’s hard to choose, but the one I learned the most from was being lured to a job by the remuneration and title. In that moment, I learned the connection between my personal values and the company’s culture were way more important than money or title. You have to do what gives you energy, stretch, and development, otherwise you simply won’t enjoy it (or be good at it).
4. What would you tell your 25-year-old self?
Firstly I would say that despite being a decent sportsperson, give up on the goal to play professionally, haha! That said, I would say follow your dreams and take more risks as it always works out in the end. Once you lose the fear of failure your chances of success multiply exponentially.
I started my working life as an engineer and ended up as a general manager – who knew that was even possible! – so never limit yourself.
5. What is one goal you still want to achieve?
I have a big focus on inclusion and diversity, and being able to bring your true self to work each and every day. My executive team and I have worked on creating gender balance and really shifted the dial with our senior leader diversity. I would love to be in a position to replace myself with the first female GM for Mars Wrigley Australia.
