Philip Morris appoints new director of commercial operations

Philip Morris Limited (PML) has appointed John Rennie to the role of director of commercial operations.

Having been part of the business for almost 14 years, he was appointed financial director at PML in 2021 as part of its multi-category portfolio of smoke-free alternatives throughout the country. In his new role as director of commercial operations, John will be working to accelerate PML’s transition to a majority smoke-free business - in line with global ambitions for smoke-free products to account for more than 50% of PMI’s total net revenues by 2025.

He takes over from Cengiz Cilengiroglu, who was recently appointed to the position of vice president, smoke-free products category in the European Region, at PMI.

Speaking on his appointment, John Rennie said: “This is an exciting time for Philip Morris. In the UK, we are expanding our multi-category portfolio of science-based, smoke-free products to deliver a smoke-free future by giving adult smokers a better choice. PML has already cemented a leadership position in several categories, with IQOS the UK’s number one heat-not-burn system and further innovation in this category coming soon.

“PMI’s acquisition of Swedish Match, one of the world’s largest suppliers of nicotine pouches, provides oral smokeless alternatives, such as ZYN, that meet vital need states of adult nicotine consumers. And in the e-Vapor segment, big things have happened with the recent launch of VEEBA – our responsible, recyclable, and premium disposable vape.

“I’m looking forward to this chapter in my career with Philip Morris and providing the strategic guidance and operational excellence that takes us to the next level in our journey.”