A Strategic Approach to Portfolio Management

Camille McKay is the Global Head of Portfolio Strategy & Planning at Pernod Ricard Winemakers, with over twelve years of marketing experience. She has worked with brands like Absolut, Malibu, Chivas, and Jacob’s Creek. Her achievements include managing the Jacob’s Creek Australian Open sponsorship, launching Absolut Botanik, and orchestrating celebrity launches. McKay’s expertise lies in creative marketing strategies that captivate audiences and drive multimillion-dollar product portfolios.

In an exclusive interview with Business Management Review APAC, McKay shared her valuable insights on the various challenges, trends, and best practices of strategic planning.

How did your previous experiences prepare you for the role of Global Head of Portfolio Strategy & Planning at Pernod Ricard Winemakers?

I have over 15 years of professional experience. For the past 13 years, I have been working with Pernod Ricard, where I have undertaken various functions and roles. I attribute my success to my academic background, a double degree in economics and marketing. My enduring passion for both disciplines has guided my educational pursuits, providing a solid foundation for my career.

A pivotal shift in my career occurred when I discovered a particular affinity for the liquor category. This steered my path towards roles in agencies, collaborating with prominent alcohol clients such as Treasury and Constellation Wines in activation roles. Upon transitioning to Pernod Ricard, I further deepened my understanding of business dynamics and organizational functions. Over the past five years, I have expanded my horizons by joining the global team, overseeing the sale of diverse wines worldwide. In my current role, I collaborate with market partners and internal teams, strategically unlocking opportunities within the wine sector. This involves identifying prospects, working closely with stakeholders to provide valuable business advice. Engaging with teams such as wine making, supply chain operations, and market teams from different regions, I have gained a comprehensive understanding of diverse roles and their contributions to the overall business. This understanding has been a key factor in driving my success within the wine industry.