Rum giant Bacardi Limited has announced the appointment of Francis Debeuckelaere as its new regional president for Europe, with immediate effect.
Debeuckelaere, a 23-year veteran with the company, succeeds Mahesh Madhavan, who is in line to take over as CEO of the Bermuda-based business in 2018, following the retirement of current CEO Michael J. Dolan.
Commenting on Debeuckelaere’s appointment, Dolan said, “There is no one better qualified than Francis to take on this important regional role for the company.
“Over 23 years, Francis has repeatedly proven his ability to lead teams to success in the marketplace, most recently as VP & Managing Director for Northern Europe. Francis’ experience and expertise partnered with his drive and passion are the perfect mix to ensure that our iconic portfolio of brands continues to grow throughout Europe.”
In his career at Bacardi, Debeuckelaere has led a doubling of the group’s market presence in Belgium, going from the number three spirits company to number one. Similarly, the size of Bacardi in the Netherlands grew by more than 50%, from number three in the market to number two, while he also helped establish the company in Switzerland in 2004.
“These are exciting times for Europe and for Bacardi,” Debeuckelaere commented. “We have an enviable portfolio of brands and an extraordinarily talented team. Add to this powerful combination, the freedom we enjoy as a family-owned company to respond quickly to rapidly changing market trends and we have a winning formula in Europe.”
© 2017 European Supermarket Magazine. Article by Sarah Harford
