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American Beverage has announced that Kevin Keane, a longstanding member of its leadership team, has been appointed as president and chief executive officer. Keane has served as president and CEO on an interim basis since his predecessor, Katherine Lugar, departed in March for Hilton as executive vice president of corporate affairs.

Now officially appointed into the role, Keane will provide day-to-day leadership and management of the industry trade group to advance its strategic priorities, working closely with American Beverage’s full team and the board leadership. He has served on the company’s leadership team since 2005 and has overseen a range of industry initiatives while managing a team in Washington, DC, and in states across the country. Prior to his appointment as president and CEO, Keane served as executive vice president of the association’s Government and public affairs department. He has also previously worked as the assistant secretary for public affairs at the US Department of Health and Human Services under Secretary Tommy G Thompson. Commenting on his appointment, Keane said: “It is an honour to lead the trade association for iconic American companies deeply dedicated to the people and communities they serve across the country and globe”. “Having worked in the beverage industry for nearly 20 years, I know how hard our companies strive to be a unifying force in helping address public policy issues that people care about in ways that matter to them. Their unwavering commitment to better way solutions to tough challenges delivers meaningful results that lift communities and bring people together.” Matthew Dent, chair of American Beverage’s board of directors, said that Keane has an “exceptional depth of knowledge and experience” to bring to the role. He added: “Throughout his time at American Beverage we have made great strides in areas Americans care about including improving our environmental sustainability practices, promoting balanced lifestyles and advancing our broader leadership efforts”.