Domino’s Taps Merrill Pereyra as ANZ CEO, Elevates CFO to COO Role
Domino’s Pizza Enterprises has appointed Merrill Pereyra as CEO for Australia and New Zealand, while expanding George Saoud’s responsibilities to include Chief Operating Officer. These leadership moves aim to accelerate the company’s turnaround and operational efficiency.
- Merrill Pereyra appointed CEO Australia and New Zealand from 23 January
- George Saoud adds Group COO role to existing CFO duties
- Focus on strengthening franchise relationships and operational performance
- Leadership changes support Domino’s ongoing turnaround strategy
- Permanent Group CEO search continues with updates to come
Leadership Shakeup at Domino’s
Domino’s Pizza Enterprises Limited (ASX, DMP) has announced significant changes to its senior leadership team, signalling a renewed push to stabilise and grow its operations in the Australia and New Zealand market. Merrill Pereyra, a seasoned quick service restaurant executive with over three decades of experience, will take the helm as CEO for the region starting 23 January 2026.
Pereyra’s background includes leadership roles at global giants such as McDonald’s and Yum! Brands, where he notably led Pizza Hut’s turnaround in India and Malaysia. His appointment reflects Domino’s intent to leverage his proven track record in driving same-store sales growth and enhancing franchise economics to reignite expansion and profitability in its core ANZ market.
Expanding Operational Leadership
Alongside Pereyra’s appointment, George Saoud, who has served as Domino’s Group Chief Financial Officer since July 2025, will now also assume the role of Group Chief Operating Officer. This dual responsibility places Saoud at the forefront of the company’s financial strategy, capital management, and operational execution, including oversight of technology, procurement, and supply chain functions.
Domino’s Executive Chairman Jack Cowin emphasised that these leadership changes are designed to strengthen operational discipline and cost management across the global network. Saoud’s expanded remit is expected to drive sustainable growth by aligning financial and operational priorities more closely.
Strategic Implications and Next Steps
The appointments come amid Domino’s broader turnaround efforts, aiming to improve business performance through closer collaboration with franchise partners and enhanced operational execution. While the company has not provided detailed financial forecasts, the leadership reshuffle suggests a focus on stabilising same-store sales and improving unit economics as precursors to network expansion.
Meanwhile, the search for a permanent Group CEO continues, with the board indicating that progress is steady and further announcements will be made in due course. Investors will be watching closely to see how these leadership changes translate into tangible improvements in Domino’s competitive positioning and financial health.
Bottom Line?
Domino’s leadership overhaul sets the stage for a critical phase in its turnaround journey.
Questions in the middle?
- How quickly can Merrill Pereyra translate his international success to the ANZ market?
- What operational efficiencies will George Saoud prioritise as COO alongside CFO duties?
- When will Domino’s announce its permanent Group CEO and what direction will they bring?
