Francis Debeuckelaere
Bacardi has announced that Francis Debeuckelaere, a 23-year veteran of the company, has been named regional president of Europe with immediate effect.
Debeuckelaere succeeds Mahesh Madhavan, who in March was named the successor to current CEO Michael J. Dolan when he retires. Madhavan will now spend several months working with different regions and markets as he prepares to assume the CEO role in 2018.
In his career at Bacardi, Debeuckelaere has led a number of European markets to success, including significant growth in Belgium and the Netherlands. He also helped establish Bacardi in Switzerland in 2004.
Debeuckelaere has an MBA from the University of Leuven in Belgium and is fluent in Dutch, English, French, German and Spanish. He will be based in Geneva, Switzerland, and become a member of Bacardi’s Global Leadership Team.
Commenting on the appointment, Debeuckelaere said: “I love the company and this business, so naturally it is a great honour to be given this fantastic opportunity. These are exciting times for Europe and for Bacardi.
“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.”
Bacardi CEO Michael J. Dolan said: “Over 23 years, Francis has repeatedly proven his ability to lead teams to success in the marketplace, most recently as VP and managing director for Northern Europe.
“Francis’s 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.”
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