Today, Domino's Pizza Enterprises Ltd (ASX: DMP) announced two major leadership changes. Specifically, a new CEO for Australia and New Zealand and expanded responsibilities for its Group CFO.
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What did Domino's Pizza Enterprises report?
- Merrill Pereyra appointed as Chief Executive Officer, Australia and New Zealand, effective 23 January 2026
- George Saoud now serves as both Group Chief Financial Officer and Group Chief Operating Officer
- Saoud's remit expands to include Technology and Procurement & Supply Chain
- Permanent Group CEO search is ongoing, with updates to be provided in due course
What else do investors need to know?
Domino's says Merrill Pereyra brings over 30 years of experience in the quick service restaurant sector, including leadership roles at McDonald's, Pizza Hut, and Domino's Indonesia. The company credits Pereyra with delivering positive same store sales and improved unit economics during his tenure at QSR Brands and Pizza Hut India.
Meanwhile, George Saoud's new combined role aims to drive sustainable growth across global operations, signalling Domino's focus on disciplined execution and operational excellence. The appointments underscore the board's commitment to accelerating turnaround priorities and strengthening leadership across key markets.
What did Domino's Pizza Enterprises management say?
Executive Chairman Jack Cowin said:
We are delighted to appoint an experienced industry executive of Merrill's calibre to the key ANZ market for our company.
Merrill has a track record of building franchise relationships, growing same store sales and unit economics to return to network expansion – the board is confident he will work closely with our franchise partners to improve our business performance.
What's next for Domino's Pizza Enterprises?
The company says the board is making steady progress in its search for a permanent Group Chief Executive Officer, with further updates promised in due course. With its refreshed leadership, Domino's aims to lift performance across its network and drive disciplined growth, especially in its Australia and New Zealand operations.
Investors will be watching how the new executives shape Domino's strategy, operational discipline, and growth ambitions in the months ahead.
Domino's Pizza Enterprises share price snapshot
Over the past twelve months, the Domino's Pizza Enterprises shares have declined 16%, trailing the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) which has risen 7% over the same period.
