The Mail on Sunday reported on the weekend that Manley had been suspended in September, while Allied Domecq investigates what the newspaper describes as "personal financial irregularities".
The company has confirmed that there is an investigation going on, but would not comment on the nature of the inquiry, saying that it was of no material interest to investors. However, reports say that the investigation is understood to be looking at the relationship of the marketing department with suppliers, including advertising agencies and research companies.
Manley, an Australian, joined Allied Domecq in 2000 from Diageo, where he was global brand director for Smirnoff. Since joining Allied Domecq, he has been responsible for reshaping and centralising its marketing department, and the appointment of Publicis to global brand accounts for Stolichnaya vodka, Beefeater gin and Kahlua.
He has also been behind a shift away from huge television advertising campaigns towards on-trade promotions for Allied Domecq's brands.
Before moving into the drinks trade in 1995, Manley held marketing positions at Yamaha and Sara Lee Intimate Apparel.
Simon Stuart, senior vice-president for marketing, is filling overseeing Manley's role on a temporary basis. No one else from the marketing department has been suspended.
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