His departure marks the end of a leadership era that oversaw a major strategic reset and financial turnaround for the company
He will also assume the role of executive director of the IDFA Foundation, effective March 16, succeeding Matt Herrick.
He will assume the role on Monday, 16 February and report to Zhiqiang Li, director of Yili Oceania business division in the region.
McGuinness steps into the role at a pivotal moment for Bel as the company accelerates its growth in the market and advances its Purpose Full Snacking strategy in one of its most important regions.
Prior to this role, René was a member of the Fonterra Management Team as Managing Director Global Consumer and Foodservice.