Melbourne-based producer, Pure Dairy, has appointed Lee Shipley as general manager of wholesale/retail sales and Tim Bonaguro as general manager of corporate sales, as the company gears up for expansion.
Pure Dairy is set to open its new $100 million Dandenong South production facility this year, featuring state-of-the-art manufacturing equipment, an R&D kitchen, logistics operations and the company’s corporate offices.
The new facility will enhance Pure Dairy’s development and scaling capabilities, enabling the company to create tailored solutions for chefs, QSR operators, food manufacturers, and retailers.
The opportunity for international expansion has already attracted investors, with US natural and processed cheese packager, Great Lakes Cheese, announcing a partnership with Pure Dairy in October – its first investment outside of America.
Pure Dairy also appointed Andrew Wellington as its new chief commercial officer in November, with the new positions aiming to lead the company into a period of growth.
Shipley will lead the wholesale/retail sales division, strengthening relationships with national retailers, distributors, and independent operators. He brings decades of experience in sales strategy and market expansion to Pure Dairy, expected to propel the company’s footprint in the competitive Australian market.
Stepping into the role of general manager of corporate sales is Bonaguro, who brings a strong background in corporate account management and business development. His focus will be on expanding partnerships with food manufacturers, quick-service restaurants (QSRs), and major corporate clients, aiming to ensure Pure Dairy remains a trusted supplier for large-scale dairy solutions.
Pure Dairy executive chairman, Adrian Josephson, said the Dandenong South facility represents a significant investment in the future of dairy manufacturing in Australia, and will help the company develop new product lines and scale up operations.
“Lee and Tim bring extensive industry knowledge, strategic insight, and a results-driven approach that align with Pure Dairy’s vision for growth,” said Josephson.
“Their leadership will be instrumental in strengthening our retail and foodservice divisions, delivering innovative solutions, and expanding our reach in the market.”
