A significant milestone has been achieved in corporate leadership as Nigerian Breweries Plc announces the promotion of its Corporate Affairs Director, Sade Morgan , to lead Heineken’s Corporate Affairs for the Africa and Middle East (AME) region. Effective May 15, 2025 , Morgan succeeds David Paterson , becoming the first national from the AME region to hold such a prestigious role within Heineken’s global Corporate Affairs framework.
The announcement was made by Hans Essaadi , Managing Director of Nigerian Breweries Plc, highlighting Morgan’s exceptional contributions and her readiness for this expanded responsibility. In her new role, Morgan will join both the Heineken Global Corporate Affairs Leadership Team and the Heineken AME Management Team , overseeing corporate reputation, public policy, and sustainability strategies across the region.
A Legacy of Excellence
Since joining Nigerian Breweries in 2018, Morgan has been instrumental in navigating complex regulatory landscapes, mitigating excise tax hikes, and securing favorable fiscal frameworks for Nigeria’s beverage sector. Her leadership during challenging periods, including managing stakeholder communications during temporary brewery suspensions, has earned widespread acclaim.
Morgan has also advanced Heineken’s sustainability agenda , Brew a Better World , while championing responsible business practices in Nigeria. Her efforts have not gone unnoticed, as she was recently named 2025 Outstanding Corporate Spokesperson of the Year and Corporate Communications Professional of the Year in 2024 .
A Wealth of Experience
With over 27 years of experience spanning law, FMCGs, tobacco, and beverages, Morgan brings a wealth of expertise to her new role. A trained lawyer, she began her career in 1993 and has held senior positions at Coca-Cola Hellenic Bottling Company and British American Tobacco , with international exposure across the UAE, UK, and West Africa.
An alumna of INSEAD , Morgan is also a member of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations and the Institute of Directors . She served as the founding Chairperson of Nigeria’s Food and Beverage Recycling Alliance , further solidifying her commitment to sustainability and industry leadership.
Morgan’s appointment underscores her proven ability to manage risk, advocate for regulatory reforms, and build high-performing teams. As she steps into this historic role, she is poised to drive impactful change across one of Heineken’s most diverse and dynamic regions.
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