The 2025 Drinks Association Inclusive Leadership Mentoring Program recently reached its mid-point, with mentors and mentees coming together for a Serendis-hosted workshop to reflect, connect and build on the progress made so far.
Following the workshop, we spoke with mentor Marie O’Hare, HR Director ANZ at Campari Group and her mentee Alec Judd, National Business Manager – Independents at Pernod Ricard. They shared their thoughts on the value of the program and their experiences so far.
Building trust from day one
For Marie, joining the program was an easy decision. “I am new to the drinks industry having only joined Campari six months before the program started, so I thought it would be a great way to connect with mentors and mentees across the industry and learn more about the challenges we were collectively facing,” she said. “I had also heard great things about the program from our Campari mentor alumni so knew it would be a valuable program to be part of.”
Marie and Alec “immediately hit it off” at the program launch. “I knew that we would be able to build trust quickly and get into the crux of what Alec was trying to get out of the program,” Marie explained.
Alec says that first impression has carried through their time together. “Marie is an incredibly talented and impressive individual, with a deep understanding of leadership, people and organisational dynamics,” he said.
Making progress and learning from each other
Just 2.5 months into the program, both mentor and mentee have been surprised by the level of progress made. “Alec has been really vulnerable and open in sharing, which helped us to build trust quickly and define – or redefine – the goals as the months went on,” Marie said. “This meant we could build an action plan that was focused but also practical and realistic.”
Alec describes his experience so far as “insightful and extremely valuable.” He credits the program’s structure for inspiring participants to take ownership of their goals “with the full support, connection and guidance of your mentor.”
The relationship has also provided opportunities for “reverse mentoring.” As Marie explains, “In each session Alec would also ask me about a challenge I have faced since we last caught up and we would discuss the approach I took, gathering his feedback and perspective.”
Alec agrees the learning has gone both ways. “Both joining new businesses in the liquor industry has allowed us to connect on that journey,” he said. “I’ve been able to shed some light on the independent liquor landscape from a commercial perspective, as well as the extensive network that exists within this area.”
Using the tools and looking ahead
The facilitator-led sessions have been a valuable resource for both. “The last session was a good reminder to bring the tools back into our mentoring catch ups,” Marie said. Alec notes they “provide a framework, tools and material to refer to” and help create a “common language” for discussing challenges with mentors and peers.
Looking ahead to the remainder of the program, Alec is focused on preparation. “Heading into the back half of the year juggling business, travel and personal commitments, it will become even more important to devote the time between sessions with Marie to ensure I come prepared to get the most value out of each discussion,” he said.
“The experience so far has been great,” added Marie. “We are all super busy so the actions needed to complement what Alec is doing day to day in his role – and that’s exactly what we’ve achieved.”
Both agree the program is delivering professional growth, practical tools and a strong, authentic connection that will last well beyond its formal end. As Alec summed up: “It’s a great program, well designed and I feel privileged to be given the opportunity.”