A South Australian family business gone global, Vili’s Family Bakery, has appointed Tom Sullivan as its new chief executive officer, marking a new era for the business.
The company was founded by the late Vili Milisits and wife Rosemary in 1967, and has been led by their daughter, Alison Milisits, and the family since 2021. Alison will transition into the role of managing director and onto the newly established Advisory Board alongside Rosemary, while working closely with Sullivan to drive strategic growth.
“I’m honoured to join Vili’s Family Bakery and to continue the incredible legacy that Vili and Rosemary and the family have built,” said Sullivan.
“This is an exciting time for the business. With Alison’s ongoing leadership as Managing Director, together with the Advisory Board, I look forward to guiding Vili’s through its next phase of growth, building on the bakery’s reputation for quality, innovation and community spirit.”
Sullivan’s experience in organisational transformation, strategy, and market expansion will support Vili’s continued growth, while remaining a strong supporter of South Australian jobs and showcasing the best of the state’s food manufacturing industry to the world.
Vili’s Family Bakery has a global reputation for high-quality pies, pastries, and cakes, and has been a registered Australian Export Establishment for over 25 years – with products available in Hong Kong, Japan, Singapore, Thailand, the UK, New Caledonia, the Philippines, Cambodia, Vietnam, Laos, Taiwan, and Fiji.
Alison Milisits said the appointment reflected the bakery’s ambition to evolve and strengthen its position as a South Australian icon, while also unlocking opportunities across national and international markets.
“Our family has always believed Vili’s is more than a bakery – it’s part of South Australia’s story,” said Milisits.
“Tom’s appointment as CEO allows us to strengthen our foundation while embracing new opportunities for the future. I am confident his experience and leadership will take Vili’s to the next level while staying true to our values.”
