Dashen Breweries SC has announced the appointment of Mathias Getachew as its new Chief Executive Officer (CEO). The decision follows an extensive global search aimed at identifying a leader to guide the company into its next phase of growth.
The appointment marks a notable milestone, as Mathias becomes the first Ethiopian to lead a major brewing company in a sector that has historically been dominated by expatriate executives.
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Mathias previously joined Dashen Breweries in 2020 as Chief Financial Officer (CFO), where he contributed to strengthening the company’s financial systems and supporting strategic decision-making. He also served as Acting CEO from October 2018, during which he oversaw operational improvements, enhanced product efficiency, and supported sales growth amid challenging macroeconomic conditions.
According to the company, his leadership during the interim period demonstrated strong strategic direction and operational continuity, with visible improvements in performance and stakeholder engagement.
Industry observers have described his appointment as reflective of Ethiopia’s growing capacity to develop and empower local executives to manage large-scale enterprises.
Founded in Gondar over two decades ago, Dashen Breweries SC is one of Ethiopia’s leading beverage producers, with operations expanded further through its investment in a second production facility in Debre Birhan in 2003 in partnership with international investors.
Mathias holds a bachelor’s degree from Addis Ababa University College of Business and Economics and a master’s degree from Heriot-Watt University. He is also a Chartered Accountant (ACCA).
Before joining Dashen Breweries, he held senior positions in several multinational companies, including SABMiller, Coca-Cola Beverages Africa, and Diageo, bringing extensive experience in both international and Ethiopian consumer markets.
Company officials say his combination of global corporate experience and local market understanding is expected to strengthen Dashen Breweries’ competitiveness in a rapidly evolving industry environment.
