Nigerian Breweries Plc Announces Landmark Leadership Change

Nigerian Breweries Plc has announced the promotion of Sade Morgan, the company’s Corporate Affairs Director, to the role of Corporate Affairs Director for Heineken’s Africa and Middle East (AME) region, effective May 15, 2025. The news was shared in a statement issued by Hans Essaadi, Managing Director of Nigerian Breweries Plc.

This landmark appointment marks a historic achievement as Morgan becomes the first individual from the AME region to hold such a senior position within Heineken’s global Corporate Affairs structure. She succeeds David Paterson in this critical role and will oversee Heineken’s corporate reputation, public policy, and sustainability strategy across the region.

Since joining Nigerian Breweries in 2018, Sade Morgan has been instrumental in managing key regulatory and fiscal engagements in Nigeria’s complex policy environment. Notably, she played a vital role in mitigating excise tax hikes and securing more favorable frameworks for Nigeria’s beverage sector. Morgan also effectively handled stakeholder communications during the temporary suspension of some brewery operations in Nigeria.

Morgan has been deeply committed to advancing Heineken’s sustainability agenda, particularly the "Brew a Better World" initiative, further strengthening the company’s reputation for responsible business practices in Nigeria. Her leadership and ability to navigate high-pressure situations have made her a highly respected figure in the industry.

Morgan’s exceptional contributions have earned her significant recognition within the corporate communications field. In 2024, she was named Corporate Communications Professional of the Year, followed by being honored as the Outstanding Corporate Spokesperson of the Year in 2025. With over 27 years of experience across law, fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG), tobacco, and beverages, Morgan brings a wealth of expertise to her new role at Heineken.

A trained lawyer who began her career in 1993, Morgan has held senior roles at Coca-Cola Hellenic Bottling Company and British American Tobacco. Her international assignments across the UAE, UK, and West Africa have provided her with a broad and diverse perspective on global corporate affairs. She is an alumna of INSEAD and a member of both the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations and the Institute of Directors. Additionally, Morgan served as the founding Chairperson of Nigeria’s Food and Beverage Recycling Alliance.

In her new role, Morgan will join both the Heineken Global Corporate Affairs Leadership Team and the Heineken AME Management Team. She will be responsible for overseeing corporate reputation, public policy, and sustainability strategy across the diverse and dynamic AME region.

Morgan’s experience in regulatory advocacy, risk management, and team leadership positions her well to spearhead Heineken’s Corporate Affairs initiatives across the region. This appointment underscores Heineken’s commitment to promoting diversity in leadership and leveraging regional expertise to address the challenges and opportunities within Africa and the Middle East.

Sade Morgan’s promotion to Corporate Affairs Director for the AME region is a defining moment for both Heineken and Nigerian Breweries. With her extensive experience, proven leadership, and deep understanding of regional dynamics, Morgan is poised to make a lasting impact on Heineken’s growth and sustainability goals in the AME region.