Heartland Coca-Cola announces leadership transition as Jeff Carter prepares to become president

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Heartland Coca-Cola Bottling Company has announced a planned leadership transition, with Jeff Carter set to become president in January 2028, succeeding current president and chief operating officer Chuck Wyant.

The transition will begin in January 2027, when Wyant will continue in his role as chief operating officer while preparing for retirement in the first quarter of 2028. Carter, currently senior vice president of sales and service, will assume the presidency at that time.

The announcement comes ahead of Heartland’s 10th anniversary in February 2027, marking a decade since the company was founded.

Wyant has spent more than 40 years within the Coca-Cola system, beginning his career as a route driver in 1985. During this time, he has held leadership positions across multiple functions and markets, contributing to business growth, organisational development and leadership succession.

Carter brings more than 30 years of experience within the Coca-Cola system. In his current position, he leads Heartland’s sales and service organisation, having previously held a range of leadership roles across Coca-Cola businesses. His experience includes driving commercial growth and strengthening customer relationships.

Justin Bridgeman, CEO of Heartland Coca-Cola, said: "Heartland has always been built on strong leadership, strong partnerships, and exceptional people.”

He congratulated Wyant’s instrumental role in shaping the company while describing Carter as having the experience and qualities needed to guide its next phase of growth.

Wyant will work closely with Carter throughout 2027 to support a smooth transition.

The succession plan reflects Heartland’s focus on leadership development and operational continuity as it prepares for its next decade of operations.

Headquartered in Olathe, Kansas, Heartland Coca-Cola Bottling Company serves more than 25,000 customers and approximately 10 million consumers across Kansas, Missouri and Illinois, as well as parts of Iowa and Nebraska.

The bottler sells more than 50 million cases annually across a portfolio of more than 650 products. Founded in 2017 by former NBA player and business leader Junior Bridgeman, the company opened its state-of-the-art Olathe Production Campus in June 2025 as part of a significant investment in its manufacturing capabilities.