Lion New Zealand names Jono Willis as National Sales Director

Lion New Zealand has announced a leadership change in its sales team. Jono Willis will become National Sales Director for New Zealand starting January 2027, succeeding Warwick Hooper who is retiring after a 16-year run with the company. Willis has held multiple roles at Lion since 2012, including legal counsel, general counsel, and various sales leadership positions. The company says the move aims to continue driving mutual value for Lion and its customers.

What changed

Lion New Zealand disclosed that Jono Willis will assume the role of National Sales Director for New Zealand from January 2027. He will replace Warwick Hooper, who leaves after a 16-year career with the company. Willis’s background spans legal, general management, and several sales leadership roles within Lion, including National Accounts Director and Field Sales Director.

Who is affected

The change primarily affects Lion’s sales leadership structure in New Zealand, including Lion’s customers and staff in sales and related operations. Warwick Hooper’s departure marks the end of a long tenure; Willis’s promotion signals continuity in leadership for Lion’s New Zealand business. Customers may experience continuity in account management as Willis transitions into the top sales role.

Practical next steps

For customers and partners: expect ongoing collaboration with Lion’s sales leadership as Willis steps into the role in early 2027. If you have active accounts or partnerships, you may see introductions to Willis and possible alignment meetings as the transition progresses. For staff: anticipate a leadership transition plan and potential changes in duties across sales teams as the new director integrates.

Limits and questions

The available reporting focuses on leadership change and Willis’s past roles; it does not specify strategic shifts, portfolio changes, or timing details beyond January 2027. If you need more detail on how the role will shape Lion’s sales strategy or customer impact, consider requesting a formal briefing from Lion’s NZ communications or investor relations teams once more information is available.

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