Pure Dairy has announced Andrew Wellington as its new Chief Commercial Officer (CCO), bringing over 20 years of experience in the dairy and food-processing sectors to the role.
Known for his expertise in operational leadership, market expansion, and supply chain optimisation, Wellington’s appointment signals Pure Dairy’s focus on navigating future volatility in the global dairy market, the company said in a news release.
The move comes as Pure Dairy prepares to open a state-of-the-art, $100 million production facility in Dandenong South, Victoria, slated for 2025.
The new plant will strengthen the company’s ability to deliver innovative, data-driven solutions to its partners across 72 countries, offering Australian businesses a competitive edge in a rapidly evolving international landscape.
Adrian Josephson, executive chairman of Pure Dairy, highlighted Wellington’s capabilities in managing complex global operations.
“Andrew has the breadth of experience and insights to consolidate the work of our multidisciplinary teams. Through our international offices and partner network, we have real-time data on global market dynamics. Leaders like Andrew, who can immediately see the big picture, are essential in such a dynamic environment,” Josephson said.
He pointed to challenges like the ongoing Red Sea shipping crisis and the looming US-China tariff hikes as opportunities for Australian dairy exporters.
There are some major opportunities coming up for quality Australian dairy, and I can’t wait to see where Andrew takes Pure Dairy,” Josephson added.
Wellington’s connection to the dairy industry runs deep, beginning on his family’s dairy farm in northern Victoria.
After starting his career as a milk tanker driver, he completed a cadetship with Murray Goulburn and studied Food Technology at Melbourne University.
His career includes leadership roles in Australia and New Zealand. At Open Country Dairy, Wellington oversaw national plant integration and capital projects, and at Thermaflo NZ, he specialised in plant design as Technical Director. Most recently, as Chief Operating Officer at Union Dairy Company, he focused on operational efficiency and innovation.
Reflecting on his new role, Wellington said, “I’ve been privileged to experience virtually every aspect of the dairy industry, and I’m inspired to bring that knowledge to Pure Dairy. With its international network, big data capabilities, and multidisciplinary team, the company has proven its ability to capitalise on opportunities. The potential is enormous as we prepare to launch our production facility.”
The upcoming facility in Dandenong South will house advanced manufacturing equipment, an R&D kitchen, logistics operations, and corporate offices.
Designed to meet global standards, it aims to enhance Pure Dairy’s ability to deliver tailored solutions for domestic and international markets.
Josephson concluded, “Andrew’s lifelong connection to the dairy industry, combined with his operational expertise and leadership, makes him an exceptional addition to our team.”
“As we prepare to launch our production facility and expand our global footprint in commodity trading and the foodservice industry, Andrew will play a key role in realising our ambitious plans. His appointment is yet another step in our commitment to driving innovation and excellence in global dairy.”
