Fonterra announces Mainland Group leadership exit
René Dedoncker to step down after sale to Lactalis
17 February 2026
1 minute read
By: René Dedoncker has resigned as managing director of Global Markets Consumer at Fonterra Co-operative Group Ltd, the company said.
Dedoncker, who has been with the co-operative since 2005, has led the Mainland Group business since March 2025. He is leaving to take up a role outside Fonterra.
He previously served on Fonterra’s management team as managing director of Global Consumer and Foodservice. Dedoncker has also led Fonterra’s Australian operations, including the merger of Fonterra Brands New Zealand and its Australian business to form Fonterra Oceania, and held global leadership roles within the company’s foodservice division.
Dedoncker has a six-month notice period and will continue to lead Mainland Group through completion of the divestment transaction and transition to Lactalis ownership.
Fonterra CEO Miles Hurrell thanked Dedoncker for his contribution to the co-operative, particularly during the process to divest Mainland Group and prepare the business for sale.
