The latest news, trends, analysis, interviews and podcasts from the global food and beverage industry

The Coca-Cola Company has announced that Carlos Pagoaga will become its new vice president of global community affairs, as well as president of The Coca-Cola Foundation.

Pagoaga, who has worked for The Coca Cola Company for 34 years, is expected to begin his new duties on 1 June. He succeeds Saadia Madsbjerg, who is stepping down after heading up the Foundation for three years. Currently, Pagoaga serves as the Foundation’s senior director for circular economy, where he is responsible for directing global recycling initiatives. He will manage all Foundation operations when he steps into his expanded role – including grant making, financial requirements and regulatory compliance for domestic and international philanthropy. Bea Perez, executive vice president and global chief communications, sustainability and strategic partnerships officer at The Coca-Cola Company, said: “Carlos will build on the great progress Saadia has made in shaping the strategic direction of the Foundation for the future. I thank Saadia for her service and congratulate Carlos on his new role.” Pagoaga joined Coca-Cola in 1990 in Corporate Latin Affairs, where he managed relationships with Latino organisations and elected officials across the US. Later, he moved to the company’s North America unit to manage multi-cultural communications. He commented: “I’m thrilled to have the opportunity to lead The Coca Cola Foundation and to work with our partners. I’m deeply proud of the role Coca Cola plays in the world and of the Foundation’s contributions to so many groups and communities.” Pagoaga’s appointment is contingent on formal election by the Foundation board, which is chaired by Perez.