Bacardi Chooses Company Vet to Lead Latin America Operations

HAMILTON, Bermuda -- Bacardi Limited has tapped one of its own veterans to lead operations in Latin America. Effective immediately, Robert Furniss-Roe will serve as regional president of Latin America.

"With more than 20 years at Bacardi, Robert possesses an extraordinary mix of industry knowledge, business successes, entrepreneurial spirit, leadership effectiveness and expertise in both global and regional marketplace that will have tremendous impact in this growth region for the company," said Seamus McBride, president and chief executive officer of Bacardi Limited. "The internal appointment also showcases the strong leadership within Bacardi and the company’s ability to foster and grow talent internally."

Furniss-Roe joined Bacardi Limited in 1989 and tackled several marketing and executive management positions. He most recently served as chief of staff and vice president of global sales, corporate communications and corporate responsibility. With the new title, he will continue with his responsibilities for global sales and corporate communications.

"Latin America continues to offer huge potential in our business," Furniss-Roe said. "I look forward to working closely with my talented colleagues throughout Latin America to develop our portfolio of leading brands and further accelerate our already impressive growth. I believe we are well equipped to be recognized as leaders in consumer innovation across the Latin American region."

Other positions on his Bacardi resume include interim regional president of Europe, Middle East & Africa; area director for Russia/CIS/Poland; vice president of global marketing; area director for Asia-Pacific, vice president of marketing for Asia Pacific; and senior line marketing roles in France and the United States.